Warren Gatland welcomes challenge of gruelling Lions trip to New Zealand

"We know how tough it's going to be, but that's what athletes and coaches get excited about."

Warren Gatland has welcomed the challenge of leading the most arduous tour in British and Irish Lions history knowing the rewards for glory would be great.

Gatland has been placed in charge of next summer's odyssey to New Zealand and will begin a 10-month sabbatical from his post with Wales immediately by heading to the home of the reigning world champions on Thursday.