Jack Rowell, former England and Bath rugby union head coach, dies aged 87

07/03/2024 08:37 AM

• Former lock and Bath stalwart oversaw 21 wins in 29 Tests
• 'A towering figure in history of Bath and English rugby'

Steve Borthwick has led tributes to former England and Bath head coach Jack Rowell following his death at the age of 87. Rowell coached England from 1994 to 1997, overseeing 21 victories in 29 Tests and a World Cup semi-final appearance against New Zealand in Cape Town when Jonah Lomu scored four tries as the All Blacks ran riot.

Players such as Will Carling, Jeremy Guscott and Rob Andrew all flourished under Rowell's leadership, with England winning Five Nations grand slams in 1995 and 1996. Rowell was appointed by the Rugby Football Union following an outstanding 16-year coaching career with Bath. He transformed the west country club into giants of the English domestic game, winning five league titles and the knockout cup eight times under his direction.