Departing Quins boss Billy Millard in talks over huge Test job

Harlequins director of rugby Billy Millard is leaving the club at the end of the season and could be set for a move across the Severn Bridge into Wales.

Millard, who moved to the Twickenham Stoop as general manager in 2018, became director of performance in 2021 and was appointed director of rugby two years later.

The Australian plotted Quins winning their second Gallagher Premiership title in 2021 after seeing off Exeter Chiefs 40-38 at Twickenham, and his departure from the club comes amid interest from the Welsh Rugby Union.

The WRU have advertised for a director of professional rugby, and Millard is understood to be someone that they have spoken to and his departure from Quins could be seen as no coincidence.

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Quins would then be fearing that he might try and take Danny Wilson with him to become Wales’ new head coach and scrum coach Adam Jones, who in January became their scrum consultant for the 2025 Six Nations Championship.

“This decision is not one that’s been made lightly, but I am in a position to take on a new challenge in my rugby career whilst spending time on a family project. My time at Harlequins has been nothing short of amazing.

“And I cannot thank the board, staff, players, and supporters enough for creating so many memories and friendships for my family and myself.

“I will continue to support everyone at the club and drive all areas forward until the end of the season,” said Millard in a statement.

Harlequins chief executive officer Laurie Dalrymple added: “We would like to thank Billy for his dedication and contributions to our club throughout his tenure at The Stoop.

“His leadership, vision, and passion for the game have helped shape our team and foster a great culture across the club, leading to significant success on the pitch.

“While we are sad to see Billy go, we wish him and his family well as they embark on a new chapter at the end of the season.

“Whilst we will look to review and recruit as necessary, following Billy’s departure, the focus for everyone at the club remains the same – finishing as strongly as possible across both competitions that we continue to compete in.”