Warren’s words of wisdom

Gatland on his Lions role being a mixed blessing

“I’m well aware of the expectations going to Australia and I’m also well aware that I’m probably taking on a poisoned chalice because if you look at what has happened to Lions coaches (after) the last four tours, it is not the best job to be in.”

Gatland on the tour’s non-Test games

“From a coaching perspective, you would like the Super Rugby sides to be as strong as they possibly could. That is where we were caught out in 2009. Looking back on it, we were playing teams without their Springboks in the front row who were kept away.”

Gatland on being an ‘outsider’

“I’m well aware that there will be potential criticism that it should have been someone who is British or Irish... but I have been coaching in the northern hemisphere for 23/24 years. I lived and coached in Ireland, London and now I live and coach in Wales.”

On picking assistant coaches based on nationality or just CVs

“A bit of both really. It is something we have discussed. We need a mix within the coaching and management to reflect the four nations in certain positions.

It is about having some continuity from the last tour and getting the best people in the roles as well.”