Joe Schmidt’s elevation to the post of Ireland head coach was lost a little in the inevitable hype that surrounds the announcement of a Lions squad last week.

After months of speculation, the Lion is out of the bag.

Three key areas where Munster must impose themselves this evening

Warren Gatland has absorbed much advice over the last 12 months in relation to what he should and shouldn’t do on the 2013 Lions tour to Australia.

Indisputably, this was up there with the very best that Munster have achieved in their rich and storied relationship with the Heineken Cup.

Munster need direct, physical approach to stop Harlequins

Irish players must take responsibility against Saracens

I am finding it increasingly difficult to get my head around the player welfare programme and the current state of the provinces.

LESS than an hour after Ireland had succumbed to a very average Scotland side in this year’s Six Nations in Murrayfield, Warren Gatland — present to run the rule over potential Lions — noticed a familiar gathering of IRFU officials in a corner of the hospitality room.

The Irish players aren’t the only ones glad to see the back of this season’s Six Nations.