Joe Yap: British & Irish Lions appoint former England international as head coach of women’s team for the first time Rugby Union News

Jo Yap has been appointed as the head coach of the British and Irish Lions women’s team for the first time.

The landmark Howden British & Irish Lions Women’s Series will be held in New Zealand in 2027, with the Lions facing the Black Ferns in a three-Test series and a program of pre-tour fixtures including pre-Test fixtures to be confirmed later this year.

The tour is a historic milestone for both the Lions and marks the continued growth of the women’s game across the four home unions

Yap will take a break from her current role as head of women’s pathways in England rugby to lead the tour and work part-time for the Lions from July before taking up full-time duties from January.

A 70-cap England international, she represented the Red Roses at three Women’s Rugby World Cups in a distinguished playing career before transitioning into coaching.

His coaching CV spans both club and international sports. He has previously served as head coach of England U20s Women, Worcester Warriors Women and Barbarians and most recently led the Australian Women’s National Team at the 2025 Rugby World Cup.

Yap will be officially introduced as the Lions women’s head coach at an official media conference on Tuesday, June 9.

Speaking after her appointment, Yap said: “To lead the first British and Irish Lions women’s team is an incredible honor and something I am extremely proud of.

“The Lions represent the very best of our game, and this tour of New Zealand is an opportunity to build something truly special and help shape the future of women’s rugby for years to come.

“I know from experience how challenging it is to face the Black Ferns on home soil, but that challenge is what makes this tour so exciting. There is a wealth of talent across the four unions and I look forward to bringing together the best players to represent the Lions in 2027.”