Johnny Sexton has been appointed as an assistant coach for the British & Irish Lions for this summer season’s Australia tour.
The previous Eire out-half performed 14 occasions throughout two separate Excursions for the Lions, beginning all three Assessments in opposition to the Wallabies in 2013, when the Lions ran out 2-1 winners, earlier than additionally competing in opposition to the All Blacks within the drawn 2017 collection.
“I am hugely excited to continue the next chapter in my coaching journey with The British & Irish Lions and I would like to thank Andy for this incredible opportunity,” stated Sexton.
“It promises to be an exciting tour to Australia and I know from experience the challenges that await us.
“Taking part in for the Lions was an enormous ambition of mine throughout my taking part in profession and my recollections of these Excursions to Australia and New Zealand will stick with me without end.”
Sexton recorded 118 caps as Eire’s main factors scorer earlier than ending his worldwide profession following the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
The 39-year-old may also take up a full-time place with the Irish Rugby Soccer Union (IRFU) from August 1, having been concerned with the boys’s squad in a part-time position because the 2024 Autumn Nations.
“I am excited to join the IRFU on a full time basis and am extremely passionate about the opportunity to work with current and future players.
“I have been extraordinarily lucky to have nice coaches, who nurtured and developed my expertise, and I’m eager to share my experiences with the subsequent era and assist them obtain their targets.
“The level of investment and focus on the pathways in Ireland is really encouraging and I believe the future is really bright for men’s and women’s rugby in Ireland.”
The Lions are primed to face Argentina in Dublin on June 20 earlier than heading to Australia the place they’ll face the Wallabies on July 19, July 26 and August 2.
“I coached Johnny for the very first time during the 2013 Tour to Australia and the love that he had for The British and Irish Lions was reflected in how he operated on a daily basis,” stated Farrell.
“His influence on that Lions team and that series win, our only win in the last 24 years, cannot be underestimated.
“His combat and his dedication as a participant is one thing that he’ll deliver to this Lions Tour and I do know that the gamers will relish his expertise and experience alongside all of our assistant coaches. It’s a important coup to nominate somebody of Johnny’s standing and expertise within the recreation and I’m delighted to proceed my lengthy affiliation with him.
“It was clear from working together during the recent Autumn Nations Series that he has the talent and skillset to add to our coaching team with Ireland and I know how driven he is to add to the Lions, firstly this summer, and then on a full-time basis with Ireland later this year. I look forward to working together over the coming months and wish him well in this new chapter in his coaching career.”
