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Warren Gatland Lands “Best Job” in World Rugby

by Molly Smith (editor), Last Word on Rugby

Yesterday it was finally revealed that Warren Gatland will be the man in charge as the British and Irish Lions 2017 tour of New Zealand looms.

After coaching the 2013 squad to a 2-1 series win in Australia, Wales‘ head coach will temporarily step down from his role with the WRU and begin planning on getting the Lions their first series win against the All Blacks since 1971. Rob Howley has already stepped into Gatland’s shoes with Wales whilst the the Kiwi is on sabbatical, which has split opinions amongst Welsh fans already despite him fulfilling this same role during the previous tour.

Warren Gatland Lands “Best Job” in World Rugby

The 2013 Tour

As far as Gatland’s capabilities with the Lions goes, his track record isn’t all that bad. It was mission accomplished three years ago when he took 46 players in total to face the men in green and gold and come away with their first successful tour in 16 years. At the time there was criticism – of course you can’t please everyone – but the seemingly obvious bias selection of predominantly Welsh internationals over more experienced players from other nations divided supporters. It was a given that Wales captain Sam Warburton would do a good job and, despite being unable to play the third test due to injury, he didn’t disappoint. However his chances at being awarded skipper duties for next year hang in the balance, with England’s Dylan Hartley being hailed as stiff competition. As Gatland praised Hartley for“not being suspended in a while”, questions surrounding the captaincy role will only continue to grow, alongside places in the wider team. The 52 year old has already sent a message out to players hoping to get on the plane heading south, saying:

“I don’t think about favouritism, we will pick who we think are the best… If that means 25 Englishmen and two Welsh then that will be the squad.

“If you picked the squad now, there would be a large number of Englishmen. You have got to get on that plane believing that you can win.”

 

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