Lions Confirm Major Coaching Addition as Simon Easterby Reunites with Andy Farrell for 2025 Tour
Simon Easterby is back in Lions red – and he’s not coming alone. The former flanker is set to link up once again with Ireland boss Andy Farrell, this time as part of the coaching ticket for the British & Irish Lions’ blockbuster 2025 tour of Australia.
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Easterby, who earned two caps on the 2005 tour of New Zealand, will step away from his role as Ireland head coach after the 2024 Autumn Nations Series, making way for this exciting new chapter.
Known for his gritty edge and deep rugby IQ, Easterby adds steel to an already heavyweight coaching team.
He joins forces with Richard Wigglesworth, John Dalziel, Andrew Goodman, and John Fogarty – a lineup that’s already being tipped as a potential game-changer in the quest for Lions glory Down Under.
From Triple Crown to Lions crown
Easterby has been an integral cog in Ireland’s dominant defence in recent years, most recently stepping up as interim head coach for the 2025 Guinness Six Nations—where he led his side to a Triple Crown triumph.
Speaking after the announcement, he said:
“It’s incredible to be part of the Lions coaching team and this is a very proud day for me and my family.
“It doesn’t get any better than a Lions Tour. I was lucky enough to Tour with the Lions 20 years ago. It’s been a long time between gigs, but it is an exciting time and I am looking forward to getting stuck in.”
Who is Simon Easterby’s wife?
While Easterby’s heart beats green for Ireland, there’s red-hot Welsh passion at home—he’s married to none other than Sarra Elgan, the much-loved S4C and TNT Sports presenter, and a familiar face in rugby broadcasting circles.
The couple, celebrating 20 years of marriage in 2025, are true rugby royalty. Elgan—whose presenting career spans Sky Sports, ESPN, and BBC—is the daughter of legendary Neath, Wales and Lions winger Elgan Rees. It’s safe to say rugby runs deep in their family tree.
A wedding full of Welsh legends
Their 2005 wedding was a rugby who’s-who, with former Wales and Scarlets fullback Matt Cardey standing as Easterby’s best man. Not to be outdone, Simon’s brother Guy Easterby, himself a 28-cap Ireland international, added even more Test pedigree to the big day.
That awkward moment on live TV
Despite working in the same industry, their paths rarely cross on camera—until a now-famous moment during the 2024 Six Nations. After Ireland’s win over Wales, Elgan had to interview her husband live on S4C.
“I don’t know how to interview you!” she confessed on air, prompting a laugh from Easterby. The pair ended up having a full-blown rugby chat—one Elgan joked was the most in-depth they’d had since getting married.
As the interview wrapped, she cheekily added:
“That wasn’t as awkward as I thought. That was actually much better. Did you pick up your black socks to wear with your suit later?”
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The England players WAGs cheering on British & Irish Lions this summer
As the British & Irish Lions gear up for an action-packed summer tour, all eyes won’t just be on the pitch — the stands will be just as captivating.
The England players’ WAGs (wives and girlfriends) are preparing to show their unwavering support, bringing glamour, style, and plenty of team spirit along for the ride.
From sun-soaked selfies to heartfelt moments of encouragement, expect these supportive partners to be a vibrant presence throughout the Lions’ campaign.
Here’s a closer look at the women who’ll be roaring loudest from the sidelines this summer.
Beth Dolling – Singer, Model, and Marcus’s No.1 Fan (Marcus Smith)
Fly-half Marcus Smith is dating Beth Dolling, a 25-year-old singer and model who’s worked with major brands like PrettyLittleThing and built up a sizeable social following.
She’s often snapped in glammed-up couples’ pics with Marcus, and one heartfelt post said it all: “No matter what, watching you do what you love doing makes me so proud.”
They’ve been Instagram official since June 2021, and with Beth’s fashion flair, expect some serious style moments down under.
Mimi Fall – The new Mrs Itoje (Maro Itoje)
The Lions captain has officially hung up his bachelor boots after tying the knot with long-time partner Mimi Fall – just weeks before the tour kicks off.
The towering second-row proposed during a sun-soaked getaway to Nigeria and Ghana in August 2024, popping the question at a dreamy waterside resort in Ada, just outside Accra. “It was a beautiful resort,” Maro told the Daily Mail. “I popped the question there.” Job done.
Mimi confirmed the engagement with a sparkling Instagram reveal, flashing the rock and writing: “Mrs I to be.” Cue the collective swoon.
Fast forward to May 25, and the couple sealed the deal with a stylish ceremony in London’s swanky Mayfair. The snaps say it all – pure class, serious suits, and big smiles all round.
Sharing the news online, Maro wrote:
“Scripture says it is not good for man to be alone… I am no longer alone. I HAVE A WIFE. To God be the Glory!!!!”
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