Due to injury to Martin Johnson, Richards started the 1992–93 season in Leicester's second row, but returned to his accustomed position of number eight by the time of the 1992–93 Pilkington Cup first round match against London Scottish. Richards started all five matches as Tigers won the cup, including scoring tries in both the quarter and semi-final. Despite not being selected for England in the 1993 Five Nations Championship, Richards was picked for the 1993 British Lions tour to New Zealand and started in all three test matches. He also captained the Lions in a non-cap match against Canterbury. After the tour Richards was again appointed Leicester's captain, a position he held until he retired.