Woodward slams Henry for handling of Lions Tour

LIONS coach Clive Woodward has criticised the management of the 2001 tour to Australia.

That losing trip was led by Graham Henry, the man currently in charge of New Zealand the team Woodward's Lions must face next summer.

"The report from 2001 said the Lions needed less players and less matches," Woodward said.

"I just said the complete opposite. I spent a lot of time presenting ideas to the Lions committee and they agree."

"What disappointed me most about 2001 was the comments coming back from the players, the sort of comments I thought I'd never hear.

"Ben Cohen, who I know well, came to me and said 'I never want to go again'. That was one of the saddest things I have ever heard in rugby.

"Lions tours are very special. Beating the All Blacks is our number-one objective, but close behind that there will be a huge emphasis on enjoyment."

Rivalry has simmered between Woodward and Henry since the Kiwi's time in charge of Wales, and the decision to allow Henry to coach the Lions ahead of a British or Irishman was controversial.

The All Blacks hammered Woodward's weakened England side on a two-Test tour of New Zealand last month, and the Lions coach's comments are sure to fuel the rivalry ahead of next summer's eagerly awaited tour. Woodward will take an unprecedented party of 70 on the trip, comprising 44 players and 26 coaching staff.

He has stressed that every player will have the chance of making the Test team, but the coaching staff will be split between those preparing the midweek side and those looking after the Saturday team.

"In 2001 the emphasis was on the Saturday side and as a coach it isn't possible to prepare properly for two games in a week," said Woodward.

"The only way for players to get into the Test team is to play well, so the midweek side also needs thorough preparation.

"Supporting the Test team is the ultimate goal of all the tour party, but we will do everything possible to give the midweek side the chance to perform," he said.

"I will be announcing the coaching team at the end of September. There will be three for the Test side and three for the midweek side.

"I've already spoken to the people I want and they know their roles. I want the best coaches and that does not necessarily mean an international coach."

Llanelli Scarlets coach Gareth Jenkins has been rumoured to be one of the candidates, and Woodward did not rule out the possibility.

"I'm looking forward to working with whoever we get as the coaching representative from Wales," said Woodward.