Coaches’ clash more than just a sideshow

ONE MIGHT have thought the focus would be on the battle between Ronan O’Gara and Stephen Jones at out half or the alleged animosity between Brian O’Driscoll and Gavin Henson.

No such luck. As far as the media is concerned, there is only one contest in town this weekend, that between my former management colleagues, Eddie O’Sullivan and Warren Gatland.

Having stepped down as Irish manger for the 2001 Lions tour, I wasn’t around when Gatland was released by the IRFU but recall being very surprised when I first heard the news. I didn’t see it coming and rang Warren to offer my commiserations.