Statement: Harlequins boss quits for Wales job
03/25/2025 05:00 PM
Harlequins’ director of rugby, Billy Millard, has announced he will leave the club this summer after seven successful years.
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From General Manager to Premiership Glory
The 55-year-old Australian joined Quins as general manager in 2018 before guiding them to their second Premiership title in 2020-21. He moved into the director of performance role in 2021 before stepping into his current position in 2023.
Eyeing New Challenges
Millard revealed his decision was not made lightly, stating:
“I am in a position to take on a new challenge in my rugby career, whilst spending time on a family project.”
Dual Success in 2021
Under his leadership, both the men’s and women’s teams lifted their respective league titles in 2021. He also oversaw Quins’ historic run to the European Champions Cup semi-finals last season, where they fell to eventual winners Toulouse.
WRU on the Horizon?
Millard's departure comes amid reported interest from the Welsh Rugby Union, who are seeking a director of professional rugby. According to Rugby Pass, his exit may not be a coincidence as discussions between Millard and the WRU have already taken place.
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"Fly-half Says 'Nah' – Four Big Names Out of 2025 Lions Tour
The 2025 British & Irish Lions tour kicks off in Australia on July 19, with a three-Test series against the Wallabies. Andy Farrell's squad will be without several big names due to injury, retirement, or club commitments.
1. Ollie Lawrence – Achilles injury ends Lions dream
England centre Ollie Lawrence was widely tipped to make Farrell's Lions squad before suffering a devastating injury. The Bath star ruptured his left Achilles tendon just nine minutes into England's 47-24 Six Nations win over Italy, ruling him out for up to a year.
A Premiership Player of the Season in 2023, Lawrence had become a key figure for Steve Borthwick's England. His explosive running, defensive solidity, and hard-carrying ability made him a strong candidate for the tour. However, with the Lions series beginning in just over three months, his injury has ended any chance of selection.
Lawrence expressed his disappointment on social media: “Lost for words… That's not how I imagined my season to end! The comeback is always greater than the setback.”
Surprise Fact: Lawrence was once in Aston Villa's football academy before choosing rugby.
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