Andy Farrell will draw on Ireland’s All Blacks experience

Andy Farrell will take as much from Ireland’s defeat to the All Blacks last month as from their famous win when he swaps a green tracksuit for the red of the British & Irish Lions and heads to New Zealand next summer.

The former England and current Irish defence coach was yesterday confirmed as one of Warren Gatland’s assistants for the three-Test showdown with the world champions, his second stint with the Lions having performed a similar role on the victorious 2013 tour to Australia.

At Carton House yesterday he was reunited with both Gatland and fellow 2013 alumni, attack coach Rob Howley, with England’s Steve Borthwick the one fresh face having been named forwards coach.