The latest Gatlandgate could linger for a while

The one constant with Warren Gatland over the years is his ability to generate controversy. It is something that doesn’t bother him unduly, even if you can be assured of some tetchy press conferences over the days and weeks ahead.

Four years ago he had the courage of his convictions when omitting Brian O’Driscoll from the starting line-up for the deciding third test against Australia. The fact the Lions won the series more than justified that decision in his mind.

The fallout from his most recent left-field call, in drafting in six additional players on a short-term basis to cover the remaining midweek games against the Chiefs and Hurricanes, in Hamilton and Wellington, respectively, could linger for some time to come, however.