Coach Gatland to watch his Lions in Six Nations

Coach Warren Gatland to kick start his preparations by watching his Lions in Six Nations despite doubts over summer tour to South Africa

  • Gatland scheduled to travel from his home in New Zealand on Wednesday 
  • The head coach has been given dispensation to attend Six Nations fixtures 
  • Doubts remain about the upcoming series with world champions South Africa 

Warren Gatland will fly into the UK on Wednesday to begin his Lions scouting mission, despite uncertainty about this summer’s tour to South Africa.

Although Tests will be played behind closed doors, the head coach has been given dispensation to attend Six Nations fixtures, starting with this weekend’s Tests at Twickenham and Cardiff.

Gatland has been living in his native New Zealand since the 2019 World Cup but he is expected to spend the coming weeks at his second home in Wales.

Warren Gatland will fly into the UK on Wednesday to begin his Lions scouting mission

He is yet to finalise his schedule for the competition, although Sportsmail understands that he has been given permission by all of the home unions to visit team camps, if desired, subject to Covid regulations.

Doubts remain about the upcoming series with the Springboks, with hopes of crowds being allowed into South African stadiums this summer appearing increasingly bleak.

Alternative scenario planning is under way, with Australia recently offering to host the tour, as an alternative to staging it in South Africa or the UK and Ireland.

On Monday, Rugby Australia chief executive Andy Marinos gave his backing to the idea, saying: ‘If we can provide a safe haven, an environment where the British and Irish Lions tour can continue, why wouldn’t we?

Rugby Australia have offered to host the series amid the coronavirus crisis in South Africa

‘It’s so important for the global rugby economy and the global rugby community that we have international rugby played with as little disruption as possible.

‘The fact that we can fill stadiums and play in relatively friendly time zones for them could deliver high benefits.

‘All member unions need revenue in Covid times and I’m sure we could deliver them a big cheque at the end of the day.’

Gatland has chosen to delay the announcement of his coaching staff, although Andy Farrell, Steve Borthwick and Gregor Townsend are understood to be among the front runners.




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