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Barbarians confirm coaching team for Autumn club matches

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Australian quartet Jason Gilmore, Berrick Barnes, Nathan Grey and Laurie Fisher will take charge of the world-famous Barbarians over the course of their Autumn club fixtures, kicking off with Bristol Bears at Ashton Gate on Thursday 7 September.

Pat Lam’s men will take on the iconic invitation side in a sensational curtain raiser for the new campaign, with live music and an international party atmosphere in BS3.

Some of the game’s greatest-ever players have represented the Barbarians and Ashton Gate is set to host some of rugby’s biggest names when the Baa-baas come to town in September with the Rugby World Cup set to start 24 hours later.

Gilmore, the current NSW Waratahs Assistant Coach, has previously coached at Queensland Reds and the Australia U20s. 

Barnes, a former dual-code star and 51-cap Wallaby international is a current member of NRL side Newcastle Knights’ coaching staff.

35-cap Wallaby centre Nathan Grey is the former Australia and NSW Waratahs Defence Coach, while former Cherry and Whites coach Fisher is the current Assistant Coach of the Brumbies. 

Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “Having had the honour of coaching the Barbarians on two occasions, I must congratulate Jason, Laurie, Nathan and Berrick on their appointments for the UK tour.

“Everyone in Bristol is excited to welcome the Barbarians to Ashton Gate in September for what promises to be another memorable occasion in the city.”

Gilmore said: “To coach the Barbarians on a UK tour is an exciting challenge and one I can’t wait for. 

“The opportunity to bring the Barbarian style of play to a full house at Ashton Gate in Bristol will make for a great match.”

Barnes said: “Thank you to the Barbarians for this amazing opportunity to be a part of such an iconic rugby institution. The Barbarians represent all that is good about the game, and I can't wait to rip in alongside three incredible Aussie coaches and bring a bit of fun and flair to Ashton Gate.” 

Grey said: “Having had the honour of playing for the Barbarians in 2005, it was something I will always be grateful for and enjoyed thoroughly. Being asked to help coach the team with a great bunch of Aussie coaches is equally as exciting.  

“An opportunity that I will grab with both hands and do my best to contribute to the fabric of the BaaBaas ethos and playing style. I can’t wait!”