Doncaster Knights appoint Dean Richards as Director of Rugby
2nd July 2026
Doncaster Knights have confirmed the appointment of former England international and Lion, Dean Richards as the club’s new Director of Rugby with immediate effect.
Richards brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience to Castle Park as the Knights look to strengthen their ambitions on and off the field.
As a player, Richards made 314 appearances for Leicester Tigers at No.8 and earned 48 England caps, as well as representing the British & Irish Lions on six occasions. Since retiring from playing, he has built an impressive coaching career with Leicester Tigers, FC Grenoble, Harlequins and Newcastle Falcons, where he spent a decade in charge between 2012 and 2022.
Doncaster Knights President Steve Lloyd said:
“Dean’s rugby pedigree speaks for itself and his thoughts and plans for the future development of The Knights will excite our existing support base and also attract new supporters to The Knights and, potentially, to Yorkshire Rugby in general. We look forward to welcoming Dean into the ‘Knights Family’ and working as a team to achieve the success the Club constantly seeks”
Richards said:
“The opportunity to join Doncaster came completely out of the blue, but it is one I simply couldn’t ignore. Doncaster is a club with genuine ambition, and the vision of everyone involved is clear. The aim is to build a club capable of challenging for promotion, and that’s a challenge I’m incredibly excited to be part of.
I’m now looking forward to meeting the players, coaches, volunteers and supporters at Castle Park. There’s a great deal of hard work ahead, but it’s an exciting project and one that I’m privileged to lead.”
Richards will be bringing his own coaches to the club, with announcements to follow in the coming weeks. Sir Ian McGeechan will continue in his consultancy role with the club, providing support and guidance where required.
Richards arrival represents a new chapter at the club, and everyone at Doncaster Knights is excited by his arrival. Join the Knights family this season and bring the support. Season tickets can be purchased here.
