WATCH: Warren Gatland handed head coach role for Lions tour to New Zealand

"Coaching the Lions is a great privilege. I'm honoured to be offered the role again,"

Warren Gatland has been appointed head coach for the 2017 British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand.

The 52-year-old Kiwi fills the role for the second time after masterminding a 2-1 series victory over Australia three years ago and will begin a sabbatical from his position as Wales boss immediately.