Leicester Tigers have confirmed the immediate departure of Dan McKellar from his role as Head Coach with immediate effect.
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The club said in a statement: “The decision has been mutually agreed following extensive discussions regarding the club’s future direction.
“McKellar joined Tigers in July 2023 from the Wallabies – where he was Assistant Coach for the Australian national side – and oversaw 30 games at Tigers, in all competitions, during the 23/24 campaign.
“The club has commenced the process for finding a new Head Coach to lead the men’s programme into the 24/25 season. Pre-season training for the men’s players not on international duty commences on July 1 at Oval Park.
“We thank Dan for his contribution to Leicester Tigers and wish him, Carla, Amelie and Maya well for the future.”
England player ratings vs Japan:
1 Bevan Rodd 6.5
Back in the squad for his first start since the Rugby World Cup win against Chile. Looked up to scratch following his Six Nations injury layoff. Made some short, sharp carries to grind out the hard yards over the gain-line. Received some medical attention after a battering collision just before the half time break. Off for Joe Marler at 43rd minute.
2 Jamie George (c) 7
Wonderfully overthrown line-out in the first half, which found Ollie Lawrence to set up Marcus Smith’s try. Gave away a penalty in the 31rd minute, as Japan pushed for territory downfield. Off for Theo Dan at 43 minutes.
3 Dan Cole 7
After a slow start from the entire England pack, Cole’s experience proved invaluable as the forwards regained the control up-front. Received some attention as his ear was bruised in the front row. Drove for the try-line from close range, but the Leicester man was held up at 48 minutes. Made a try-saving tackle at 53 minutes, as he halted the rapid pace of Japan’s offload attack. This tackle stopped the penalty try being awarded, after Marcus Smith’s early hit.
4 Maro Itoje, 7
Inch perfect work at the line-out, with his telepathic relationship showcased with hooker Jamie George. Solid under the high ball, as he was often the target of a Japan re-start. The lead decision maker for the many England vice-captains. Left in the trail behind Warner Dearns, as the Japan lock showcased immense one-handed skill on the run up to his side’s second try.
5 George Martin 7
A key turn over after seven minutes, as Japan threatened England’s try-line. The lock stepped up in the absence of Ollie Chessum, to form a solid second row duo with Maro Itoje. Pushed on to make key line-out contributions, despite picking up a couple of stinging injuries on his shoulders.
6 Chandler Cunningham-South 7.5
Dropped the kick off, but made a recovery. Turns his favours around by scoring England’s opening try in Tokyo, as he muscled over from close range. Received some brief treatment at 19 minutes, but muscled on for his first start. A monstrous hit at 26 minutes, as the Harlequin changed the momentum.
7 Sam Underhill 8
After a slower start by his high standards, the Bath man was at his bruising best after warming up his shoulders. Brilliant turnover at 46 minutes, as Underhill latched onto the ball and could not be shifted from the ruck. Brought England up to 50 points, as the forward pack bulldozed over from a rolling maul.