The Rugby World Cup newcomers, Hong Kong China, have unveiled a significant coaching overhaul in anticipation of their first appearance at the tournament in Australia next year. This announcement follows their historic victory over Uruguay, a top 15-ranked team, with a thrilling 42-40 win during the World Rugby Nations Cup in July, setting the stage for their World Cup preparations.
As part of this strategic revamp, Toby Booth, the former Ospreys head coach and Harlequins consultant, has been brought on board to join the expanded coaching team. Booth will mainly focus on enhancing the defensive strategies and lineout tactics for the team. He had previously collaborated with the Hong Kong China team in 2025, serving as a high-performance strategic and technical consultant.
"We welcome the return of Toby to the set-up as we prepare for our one-year push to one of the biggest moments in the history of rugby in Asia," said Simon Amor, executive director of performance rugby. "His previous time with the squad has continued to resonate with the playing and coaching staff, and we are delighted to have him back."
Adding to the coaching prowess, Allan Ryan, a renowned strength and conditioning coach formerly with French Top 14 champions Toulouse, joins as a consultant. His expertise will be pivotal in advancing the physical conditioning of the players.
"We are also delighted to welcome one of the premier Strength & Conditioning coaches in World Rugby to the programme in Allan Ryan. Allan’s experience working with the very best players in the world will be invaluable as we look to continue to make the critical gains in our players’ athletic development," Amor added.
Andrew Douglas has been reappointed as the head coach, with Logan Asplin taking on the role of attack coach, completing the leadership team that aims to steer Hong Kong China through their World Cup debut.
The team has already shown promise by decimating Korea 70-22 in the final round of the Asia Rugby Championship in 2025. With sights set on their World Cup journey, Hong Kong China finds themselves in Pool A, facing stiff competition from host nation Australia, along with formidable teams like Chile and the All Blacks in their initial matches.
This reshuffled coaching lineup and recent on-field successes suggest that Hong Kong China is not just aiming to participate in their first Rugby World Cup but is preparing to make a significant impact, embodying a blend of strategic insight and international experience.
