Hong Kong China reinstate Andrew Douglas as head coach one year before Rugby World Cup debut

Hong Kong China have reappointed Andrew Douglas as head coach, reinstating the man who guided them through Rugby World Cup 2027 qualifying just one year before their historic debut in Australia.

Douglas stepped down from the head coach role shortly after securing qualification, choosing to concentrate on his position as Head of Technical Rugby with the Hong Kong China Rugby Union. Logan Asplin, his former assistant, was promoted in his place but has now reverted to the attack coach role after four Tests in charge — the last of which was a 42-40 Nations Cup victory over Uruguay in July.

Alongside Douglas’s return, the union has rebuilt its wider coaching group ahead of the tournament. Toby Booth is back as defence and lineout coach, having previously worked with Hong Kong China as a consultant before joining Harlequins’ staff. His short-term stint at the London club ended in June, freeing him to return to the programme.

The coaching group has also been strengthened by the addition of Allan Ryan, a strength and conditioning specialist joining on a consultancy basis from Toulouse.

Simon Amor, Executive Director of Performance Rugby, welcomed both appointments. “We are delighted to have Toby back — his previous time with the squad has continued to resonate with the playing and coaching staff,” he said. “We are also delighted to welcome one of the premier strength and conditioning coaches in world rugby in Allan Ryan. His experience working with the very best players in the world will be invaluable as we look to continue making critical gains in our players’ athletic development.”

Hong Kong China’s appearance at RWC 2027 will mark the first time the Asian nation has competed at a Rugby World Cup, and the reshaped backroom staff reflects the scale of preparation required in the 12 months ahead.