Many believe there’s loads more to come from Ireland. I wouldn’t be too sure

After the 2015 World Cup, the Racing 92 coaching ticket was invited to meet the ex-England head coach Stuart Lancaster in Paris, writes Ronan O’Gara.

Many believe there’s loads more to come from Ireland. I wouldn’t be too sure

Racing’s director of rugby, Arnaud Tourtoulou, had been a liaison officer for the English at the 2007 World Cup in France and had maintained contacts within the RFU hierarchy. Given the fact Lancaster had been essentially chased out of town after the 2015 World Cup on home soil, I was intrigued by the prospect of picking his brain and hearing of the experience.

On Grand Slam Saturday in Twickenham last weekend, the second most powerful feeling of emotion I felt was for Lancaster. Everywhere he’s looked since stepping down in 2015 he has seen Eddie Jones’ smiling, winning face. Each time Jones appeared on the big screen at Twickenham in recent years, it was met with a standing ovation. Lancaster was almost attending matches under the cover of disguise. But Lancaster never lost three Six Nations games in a row.

You have reached your article limit. Already a subscriber? Sign in

Unlimited access starts here.

Try from only €0.25 a day.

Cancel anytime

More in this section

Sport

Newsletter

Sign up to our daily sports bulletin, delivered straight to your inbox at 5pm. Subscribers also receive an exclusive email from our sports desk editors every Friday evening looking forward to the weekend's sporting action.

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited