Billy Millard’s Bold Moves for a New Era in Rugby

Harlequins at a Crossroads: Gilmore’s Gamble on a New Era

The chill of January 2026 bites hard, and at the Twickenham Stoop, the atmosphere is equally frigid. Harlequins, once the darlings of the Premiership with their swashbuckling attack and unwavering spirit, find themselves at a critical juncture. A disappointing 2025/26 season, marked by inconsistency and a failure to challenge for silverware, has prompted Director of Rugby Billy Millard to wield the axe, initiating a significant squad overhaul. While the specifics of who is leaving and who is staying are closely guarded, the message is clear: mediocrity will not be tolerated. This isn’t just a tweak; it’s a calculated risk designed to resurrect a team that has lost its way.

The Context: A Season of Unfulfilled Potential

To understand the gravity of Millard’s decision, we must dissect the 2025/26 campaign. Harlequins, under the guidance of Head Coach Tabai Matson, displayed flashes of brilliance, particularly in attack. However, these moments were often overshadowed by defensive lapses, inconsistent set-piece performances, and a lack of ruthlessness in closing out tight matches. They struggled to maintain consistency in the Premiership, often following up impressive wins with disappointing defeats. Their European Rugby Champions Cup campaign was equally underwhelming, failing to progress beyond the pool stages. The team seemed to lack the cohesion and mental fortitude that characterized their title-winning season a few years prior.

Several factors contributed to this decline. Key injuries to influential players disrupted team rhythm and forced constant reshuffling of the lineup. The departure of experienced leaders left a void in the squad, both on and off the field. Opponents also seemed to have figured out Harlequins’ attacking game plan, effectively shutting down their trademark offloading style. And, perhaps most importantly, the team seemed to lack the hunger and desire that had driven them to previous successes. This combination of factors ultimately led to a season that fell far short of expectations, prompting the need for drastic action.

The Axe Falls: Who’s Out and Why?

While the official list of departing players is yet to be fully disclosed, reports suggest that several experienced members of the squad are facing the exit door. The reasoning behind these cuts is multifaceted. Some players may simply have reached the end of their contracts and are not being offered extensions. Others may be deemed surplus to requirements, with the coaching staff looking to bring in fresh talent to fill their positions. Performance-related issues are also likely to be a factor, with players who consistently underperformed facing the consequences. The leaked reports indicate a focus on improving the overall physicality of the squad, suggesting that some of the departing players may have been considered undersized or lacking in power.

Rumors are swirling about potential departures. Veteran scrum-half Danny Care, a Harlequins legend, is reportedly considering his options, although his commitment to the club remains strong. His experience and leadership would be a significant loss, but the club may be looking to invest in younger players in that position. Several forwards, including some long-serving members of the pack, are also rumored to be on their way out. These decisions likely reflect a desire to inject more dynamism and athleticism into the forward unit, improving their ability to compete at the breakdown and carry the ball effectively.

The Recruitment Drive: Replacements and Tactical Shifts

With several players departing, Harlequins are now actively engaged in a recruitment drive to fill the gaps in their squad. The focus appears to be on bringing in players who can add physicality, pace, and versatility to the team. Reports suggest that the club is targeting players from both domestic and international competitions, with a particular emphasis on bolstering their forward pack. A strong scrum and a dominant lineout are seen as crucial foundations for success, and the club is actively seeking players who can excel in these areas.

Tactically, Harlequins are expected to evolve their game plan. While their attacking philosophy is likely to remain centered around expansive rugby and offloading, there will be a greater emphasis on defensive solidity and tactical kicking. The coaching staff are keen to improve the team’s ability to control territory and apply pressure to the opposition. This will require a more disciplined approach to defense, with players needing to be more organized and aggressive in the tackle. The team will also need to develop a more effective kicking game, using tactical kicks to gain territory and relieve pressure.

Furthermore, there’s talk of a shift towards a more structured attacking game, complementing their existing flair. This could involve implementing more set-piece plays and utilizing their forwards more effectively in the attacking line. The goal is to make their attack less predictable and more difficult for opponents to defend against. This tactical evolution will require a period of adjustment, but the coaching staff are confident that it will ultimately make Harlequins a more formidable opponent.

The Impact on Key Areas: Scrum, Lineout, and Defence

The squad cuts and subsequent recruitment drive are expected to have a significant impact on several key areas of Harlequins’ game. The scrum, which has been a source of inconsistency in recent seasons, is a major focus for improvement. The club is actively seeking to bring in experienced props who can provide stability and power to the front row. A more dominant scrum will not only provide a solid platform for attack but also allow the team to win penalties and gain valuable territory.

The lineout is another area where Harlequins need to improve. The club is looking to recruit taller and more athletic locks who can consistently win possession in the air. A reliable lineout will provide the team with a secure source of ball and allow them to launch attacking plays from advantageous positions. Furthermore, a strong lineout can also be used as a defensive weapon, disrupting the opposition’s attacks and winning turnovers.

Defensively, Harlequins need to become more organized and disciplined. The team has often been guilty of conceding soft tries due to missed tackles and poor defensive alignment. The coaching staff are working to implement a more structured defensive system, with players needing to be more aware of their responsibilities and more aggressive in the tackle. A more solid defense will make Harlequins a much tougher team to beat and provide a platform for their attacking game to flourish.

The Long-Term Vision: Building a Sustainable Future

Millard’s squad cuts are not just about addressing the immediate problems; they are part of a long-term vision to build a sustainable future for Harlequins. The club is committed to developing young talent through its academy system and providing opportunities for these players to progress into the first team. This will ensure a steady stream of talent coming through the ranks and reduce the club’s reliance on expensive signings.

Furthermore, the club is investing in its coaching infrastructure, bringing in experienced coaches who can help develop the skills of the players and implement the team’s tactical vision. This will create a more professional and structured environment, allowing the players to reach their full potential. The ultimate goal is to build a team that can consistently compete for silverware and establish Harlequins as one of the leading clubs in Europe.

The Challenge Ahead: A Test of Character and Resolve

The road ahead will not be easy. The squad cuts and subsequent recruitment drive will inevitably lead to a period of transition, as new players integrate into the team and the team adapts to the new tactical approach. There will be challenges and setbacks along the way, and the team will need to show resilience and determination to overcome them. The success of this rebuild will depend on the players’ ability to embrace the new vision, work together as a team, and maintain a strong belief in their ability to succeed.

The Harlequins faithful will also have a crucial role to play. Their unwavering support will be vital in helping the team through this period of transition. By creating a positive and encouraging atmosphere at the Stoop, they can inspire the players to perform at their best and help them to achieve their goals. The 2026/27 season will be a true test of character and resolve for Harlequins, but with the right leadership, the right players, and the right support, they can emerge stronger and more successful than ever before.

Conclusion: A Necessary Jolt or a Risky Gamble?

Billy Millard’s decision to implement significant squad cuts at Harlequins is a bold move, born out of a season of underachievement and a desire to restore the club to its former glory. While the immediate impact of these changes remains to be seen, the underlying rationale is clear: a shake-up was needed to address the team’s shortcomings and inject fresh impetus into the squad. The success of this rebuild will depend on several factors, including the quality of the new recruits, the effectiveness of the new tactical approach, and the ability of the players to adapt to the changes. One thing is certain: the 2026/27 season will be a defining one for Harlequins, as they look to prove that these squad cuts were a necessary jolt and not a risky gamble.

FAQ Section

Why are Harlequins making so many squad changes?

Harlequins are undergoing a significant squad overhaul due to a disappointing 2025/26 season where they failed to meet expectations in both the Premiership and the European Rugby Champions Cup. The changes are intended to address weaknesses in the team’s performance, improve overall squad depth, and inject new talent and energy into the side.

Who is being targeted for recruitment by Harlequins?

Harlequins are reportedly targeting players who can bring physicality, pace, and versatility to the team. The focus is on strengthening the forward pack, particularly the scrum and lineout, and recruiting players who can contribute to a more robust defensive system. They are looking at both domestic and international options.

How will these changes impact Harlequins’ style of play?

While Harlequins are expected to maintain their attacking philosophy of expansive rugby and offloading, there will likely be a greater emphasis on defensive solidity and tactical kicking. The coaching staff are keen to improve the team’s ability to control territory, apply pressure, and execute a more structured attacking game plan.

What are the key areas Harlequins are looking to improve?

The key areas for improvement include the scrum, lineout, and overall defensive performance. The club aims to build a more dominant scrum, a more reliable lineout, and a more organized and aggressive defensive system.

What is the long-term vision behind these squad cuts?

The squad cuts are part of a long-term vision to build a sustainable future for Harlequins. This involves developing young talent through the academy system, investing in coaching infrastructure, and creating a more professional and structured environment that allows players to reach their full potential. The goal is to consistently compete for silverware and establish Harlequins as a leading club in Europe.