Charismatic Farrell the right choice for Lions

ANDY Farrell is a very good choice as Lions head coach of the 2025 tour of Australia.

- JEREMY GUSCOTT

It was no surprise given Farrell's contribution as an assistant coach to the success of the 2013 and 2017 Lions tours, and, after installing Ireland. at the top of the world rankings, receiving the accolade of World Rugby coach of the year in 2023.

Taking over the Ireland top job from Joe Schmidt was not the easiest of tasks, given that the Kiwi coach had won a Grand Slam, and turned the Irish into one of the world's leading international teams. However, Farrell has not only won another Grand Slam, but also taken Ireland up a level even though a first World Cup final was beyond their reach in France little more than a couple of months ago.

The Irish game is now more fluid, but maybe they need to break out even more to build on their success. I like the pod system they use I like the variations and options they can choose - and with Johnny Sexton, it worked well. The next level for the Irish might be evolving their off-the-cuff, heads-up play. When you are running out of time, to suddenly flick the switch and try and play what-you see rugby is very challenging, I would say nigh on impossible unless you have the skill sets of New Zealand players.

Farrell is undoubtedly charismatic, and he gets people to listen. You cannot do that without connecting with people, and also making sense. Although Farrell's a bit guarded, and not as talkative and open as Exeter's Rob Baxter, he is still pretty approachable. And as a player and a coach, Farrell has done well because he's delivered on what he has talked to players about, players trust him.