Andy Farrell set to reveal last Ireland hand before switching hats to Lions

This is Farrell’s last hands-on imprint before he takes temporary leave for the British and Irish Lions tour to Australia.

BEFORE LEAVE: Andy Farrells prepares for his last games before he takes leave as Head Coach for the British and Irish Lions. Picture: Seb Daly/Sportsfile

The last time we saw Andy Farrell’s Ireland take to the field was at King’s Park in Durban just over three months ago when the tourists edged a compelling second Test against the world champion Springboks.

Add in a narrow defeat to their hosts the week before in Loftus Versfeld, and another Six Nations title last Spring, and it presents a strong argument for continuity when Farrell names his squad for the November internationals on Wednesday afternoon.