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McGeechan to be knighted in New Year

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Former Scotland and British Lions coach Ian McGeechan has been granted a knighthood in the New Year Honours list for services to rugby.

Former Scotland and British Lions coach Ian McGeechan has been granted a knighthood in the New Year Honours list for services to rugby.

The 63-year-old, who won 32 Scottish caps, took over as the national coach in 1988 and led them to the Grand Slam title in 1990.

McGeechan also featured in seven Lions tours, five as a coach and two as a player – starting all four Tests for the 1974 Invincibles against South Africa.

The former geography teacher guided Wasps to the Anglo-Welsh Cup, Guinness Premiership and Heineken Cup and remains the last man to lead a victorious Lions tour in 1997.

“Rugby has been a huge part of my life for over 40 years and to have achieved everything I have with Scotland, in club rugby and with the Lions has been an immensely rewarding experience,” said McGeechan.

“This couldn’t have been achieved without the backing of my wife, Judy, and my children Heather and Rob.

“It is their support that has been such an inspiration to me. I am proud of my family and I dedicate this honour to them.”