Rugby legend and Wallabies great Owen Finegan has been announced as the head coach of the Australian Barbarians for their highly anticipated clash against Japan A at C.ex Coffs International Stadium on Saturday, April 5, as part of the Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby.
Finegan, a 1999 Rugby World Cup hero and one of Australia’s most revered forwards, brings a wealth of experience to the role. As a former Australian Barbarian himself, Finegan has a deep passion for the team’s values of playing attacking, free-flowing rugby while embracing the spirit of the game.
"The Australian Barbarians have an amazing history in Australian rugby and a tradition of always encouraging flair amongst their players while giving them the ability to express themselves and show their talent on the field. I’m thrilled to be leading this team against a quality Japanese outfit," Finegan said. "We’ve assembled a strong coaching group and will be working with some exciting players to put on a great spectacle for rugby fans at the Festival."
Finegan will be joined by assistant coaches Mark Bell and David Knox, both former Wallabies with outstanding coaching pedigrees. Bell, a renowned scrum coach and father of current Wallaby Angus Bell, will oversee the forward pack, while Knox, a former Wallabies playmaker, will bring his attacking expertise to the backs.
The Australian Barbarians squad will assemble in Coffs Harbour from April 3-6 for a camp, with preparations culminating in the highly anticipated match against Japan A. The game is expected to be a thrilling contest as the Eddie Jones-coached Japanese team will have spent the week in camp, engaging with local schools and clubs as part of the Festival’s community activations.
The squad announcement is set to follow soon, with a mix of emerging talent and experienced campaigners expected to don the famous Barbarians jersey.
Tickets for the match are now on sale—don’t miss this unmissable showdown at the Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby!
🎟 Secure your seats now at 👉 coffscoast.com.au/rugby
