Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has been confirmed as the man to lead the British and Irish Lions on their 2025 tour of Australia. However, the makeup of his coaching staff remains undecided.
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During a press conference, Farrell was quizzed on the potential scope of his search for assistants.
“As far as I need to,” he said. “As far as what will be the right type of coach that fits the group I want and the playing group deserves.”
When asked about the type of team he plans to assemble, Farrell elaborated:
“It’s not just about having five people with the same personalities. It’s about what they can bring—not just in terms of knowledge, but the character they bring to a touring party, which is a huge part of the dynamics of a group.”
With speculation mounting, several high-profile names have been linked to potential coaching roles. Here’s a look at some of the contenders:
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Jacques Nienaber
The former Springboks head coach brings a wealth of experience, having masterminded South Africa’s 2021 series win against the Lions. During his tenure with the Springboks, first as an assistant and later as head coach, Nienaber also played a pivotal role in their back-to-back Rugby World Cup triumphs.
Now a senior coach at Munster, Nienaber began his career as a strength and conditioning coach for the Free State Cheetahs. He has since built an impressive resume, including stints with Western Province, the Stormers, and Munster.
Paul O’Connell
A Lions legend himself, Paul O’Connell has been Ireland’s forwards coach since 2021, working alongside Farrell to transform Ireland into one of the world’s most dominant teams. Under their guidance, Ireland have secured back-to-back Six Nations titles, including a Grand Slam in 2023.
O’Connell began his coaching career with Ireland U20s in 2017 before moving to Stade Français as forwards coach in 2018. He joined the senior Ireland setup in January 2021 and is now a strong contender for a key Lions role.
Kevin Sinfield
Kevin Sinfield’s coaching journey mirrors Farrell’s, transitioning from rugby league to rugby union with notable success. After a storied league career, Sinfield joined Leicester Tigers as defence coach, where he helped secure a Premiership title.
When Steve Borthwick took charge of England, Sinfield followed as defence coach before moving into a more advisory role within the national setup. His motivational leadership and defensive expertise make him a natural fit for the Lions.
Other Potential Appointments
Other names reportedly in the mix include Adam Jones as scrum coach and Jonny Wilkinson as a specialist kicking coach.
As Farrell finalises his team, one thing is certain: the Lions’ 2025 tour promises a fascinating blend of personalities and expertise.
Pundit Arena’s WORST LIONS PLAYERS:
5 – Stuart Hogg
PA: “ 2013 and 2017 went badly for the Scot. The Lions stuck by Hogg for the second Test in 2021 but was shaky under the high-ball and had no chance to shine in attack .”
RUCK: Just doesn’t seem to work out for Hoggy in the Lions with the harder he tries the tougher it gets
VERDICT: Justified
4 – Andy Titterrell
PA: “Choosing to select an enormous 44-man squad, Clive Woodward made several left field selections. None more so than a Sale Sharks hooker with only two caps for England. His technical and physical skills were not good enough for the Lions.”
RUCK: He shouldn’t have been near that squad
VERDICT: Justified
3 – Tom Court
“Whilst not selected for the Test team, the London Irish man must be considered one of the strangest call-ups in Lions history, joining the squad while on holiday with his family in 2013. He made no real impact to the trip but held up the scrum against the Melbourne Rebels.”
2 – Billy Twelvetrees
PA: “Another bizarre call-up on the 2013 tour, the inside centre was brought in due to the glut of injuries sustained in the midfield. Now stranded in the international wilderness, one must assume he was fetched due to the convenience of him playing for England in Argentina.”
RUCK: It may be easy to forget, but Twelvetrees was one of the most exciting talents in Europe when he was called up. He’d impressed for England in his four caps, and looked set for a bright international future. This pick feels more deemed on the use of hindsight.
VERDICT: Bit harsh
1 – Stuart Barnes
“First capped in 1984, he only represented England ten times, frequently criticised for his inability to convert his magnificent form for Bath onto the international stage.
“Ultimately after a torrid tour, losing six of 13 matches played, Barnes served as a perfect microcosm for its inadequate results in 1993, just not good enough.”
RUCK: I wasn’t born
Verdict: Up to you
Can you name the entire British & Irish Lions squad from their tour of New Zealand in 2005?
The British & Irish Lions’ tour of New Zealand in 2005 remains one of the most talked-about campaigns in rugby history.
Despite facing a formidable All Blacks side, the squad was packed with legendary talent representing England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
From unforgettable tries to moments of controversy, this tour had it all—and it’s time to see just how much you remember!
Can you recall every player who pulled on the famous red jersey during that iconic tour? Dive into this quiz to test your Lions knowledge and relive a piece of rugby history!
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