Adam Jones signs Harlequins extension as club legend Joe Gray returns to coaching staff

Wales and British & Irish Lions prop Adam Jones has committed his coaching future to Harlequins by signing a contract extension, with the club simultaneously confirming the return of former player Joe Gray as lead transition coach.

Jones, capped 95 times by Wales, first arrived at Harlequins as a player in 2015 and transitioned into coaching in 2018. He has served as scrum and contact coach ever since, becoming a consistent presence in the club’s coaching structure.

“I’m really pleased to be extending my time at Harlequins,” Jones said. “This club has been a huge part of my life since I first came here as a player in 2015, and it’s been a natural home for my coaching career since. There is also an exciting group of forwards and front rowers coming through at the club, and I’m looking forward to being part of their progress as we continue building towards future success for Harlequins.”

Gray’s appointment fills the vacancy left by Matt Ferguson, who has departed to take up the role of England Women’s scrum, contact and skills coach. The former England hooker returns to Harlequins after three seasons at London Scottish, where he served first as head coach and then as Director of Rugby, replacing Bryan Redpath in that position at the end of last season. Gray will continue to assist London Scottish during the autumn months while they search for his successor.

The role represents a homecoming for Gray in more ways than one. He made over 170 appearances for Harlequins during his playing career and holds the distinction of being the first player to win every domestic trophy in English rugby.

In his new position, Gray will lead the club’s transition strategy for players aged 18 to 23, bridging the gap between the Academy and first-team rugby.

“It’s an area I’m hugely passionate about, and I’m excited to work with the next generation of players and help them develop towards making an impact at first team level,” Gray said. “Harlequins is a club that means a huge amount to me, so to have the opportunity to come back in this role and play a part in the growth of the next group of players is something I’m really looking forward to.”