Lions appoint McGeechan

Veteran Lions tourist handed the coaching reigns for fourth time

By Tony Curtis   Last updated: 14th May 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Lions appoint McGeechan

McGeechan: New Lions coach

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Ian McGeechan has been confirmed as head coach of the British and Irish Lions for the 2009 tour to South Africa.

The Wasps director of rugby has previously led three Lions tours as head coach - winning in South Africa in 1997 and Australia in 1989 - while was in charge of the midweek side during the 2005 trip to New Zealand.

The 61-year-old, who also played on two Lions tours, takes over from Sir Clive Woodward after the disappointing 3-0 Test defeat to New Zealand three years ago.

And although South Africa's World Cup winning coach Jake White had expressed an interest in the role, McGeechan was the overwhelming favourite for the post.

Lions chairman Andy Irvine said: "A lions tour is very special - even in the modern game they're as popular as ever.

"Some years ago there was doubt they would even continue but I'm delighted to say they're as popular as ever.

Leadership

"Many players have said playing for the Lions is the highlight of their career. And we expect 50,000 fans to travel South Africa.

"The 2005 tour was very disappointing as we lost the Test series 3-0 so it's vital we have the best leadership for to achieve success in South Africa.

"Once Gerald Davies was appointed tour manager all our attentions focused on who would be the best coach. From day one McGeechan was in our thoughts.

"We wanted someone with a special bond with the Lions. We looked elsewhere as well but time and again we kept going back to Ian.

"He's the most successful coach in Lions history."

More to follow...

Comments (10)

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Ed Curran says...

Great appointment - with a coaching team of Gatland, Edwards and Dai Young. I agree with the view of Ryan Jones as captain, I believe then Geech chose Johnson as captain in '97 it was because he wanted someone who the Springbok's looked up to when calling the toss. Physical intimidation is a big part of Springbok rugby and I can't think of anyone else other than Ryan Jones who has the experience the (current) form and on current form would be guaranteed his place. Building on the physical size of the team I would have Mike Phillips at scrum-half, who really matured in the 6N and his choice of when to pass/run/kick improved greatly and with him physical strength and size, I think there could be shades of Joost in him to scare the Boks. Other than these two on current form some players I would like to see there are Shane Williams, Cipriani, Kearney, Henson, Sackey, Tindall, Martyn Williams - and might it even be Simpson-Daniels chance to shine?

Posted 13:27 23rd May 2008

Jonny Boy says...

Top choice and yes take he looney Scotman, Telfer. I'm pretty certain, with another 6 nations to come, that Geech will pick the best players for a small squad. With Gerald Davies as tour manager, the Lions are being led by legends, all of whom have played for the Lions and know the drill. The only advise I'd give Geech is not to consult that baffoon, Woodward. He's probaby advise enough players and staff to fill 2 Jumbos and to use terminal 5. It was an insult back then to put Geech as No2. Ryan Jones for captain.

Posted 14:23 20th May 2008

Barry Larmer says...

Let's not forget that we have the home unions touring the southern hemisphere this year and another 6 nations before we talk about Lions selections. I only hope that we learn from the mistakes of the last tour and have a smaller squad and selection is not a closed shop. Best player in each position!!!!

Posted 16:30 16th May 2008

Chris Ward says...

I agree with the comment about Ryan Jones for captain if Fit. Mr Maclaren Mike Blair shouldn't get near the no.9 slot let alone captain (Plus Geech being Scottish a Scottish captain as well probably wouldn't go down too well with the other nations.). Id go for, much as it pains being English, Peel at 9. Paul o'connell is your other choice. (perhaps barring England) why do you want to select your captain from the two most underperforming Rugby Nations in the british isles at the moment? What? Im just saying! For the first time though i would argue you could select a lions side that will actually have a representative from each nation playing and being the best man for their position.

Posted 17:28 14th May 2008

Michael Jennings says...

On the subject of tour captains, look no further than Ryan Jones. I know there is a lot of water to pass under the bridge between now and then, but Jonesy epitomises the togetherness of the Wales squad, and this is what is needed on a Lions Tour. He's proven he's up to it after this year's Six Nations. As for Mclaren's other selections, two players from the two most backfiring teams in the northern hemisphere? i think not!

Posted 13:56 14th May 2008

Michael Mclaren says...

Great Decision! Ian is a world renowned coach who has proved himself to be a winner as both a player and a coach. Lets just hope he doesnt ask advice from Clive Woodward and take an extra 150 stragglers to make up the numbers. Will he take John Prescott as a spin doctor????? i think not. Potential tour captain? Mike Blair or Paul o Connell. Mike Blair has proved himself to currently be the inform 9 in the Uk and also a great leader.

Posted 12:11 14th May 2008

Ross Callachan says...

Goes to show what might have happened if he had been appointed last time . Excellent appointment im sure he will have no problems bringing the entire team together , he has done it before and we all remember the outcome of that .

Posted 12:08 14th May 2008

Dave Duke says...

Lets get Telfer back as his number 2!!!!!

Posted 12:08 14th May 2008

Axeman Mcaulay says...

This is a fantastic appointment. Lets hope the Lions can recapture some of the spirit, passion and flair that I watched as a 16 year old all those years ago. I'll never forget the Guscott drop goal but the highlight of the entire series was the Scott Gibbs bounce on Os Du Randt - wonder who will step up to the plate in 2009??? Watch this space!

Posted 11:02 14th May 2008

Andy Fitz says...

Excellent appointment. Geech certainly has the technical savvy to develop a playing style that fits the Lions, that the players get, and that can take on SA. Perhaps equally, or more importantly though, he has a deep and thorough understanding of what it means to be a Lion - he's steeped in the culture and the ethos of the team, and it will be in bringing that passion and belief to bear with the group of players selected that Geech will give the Lions an edge that few others could have brought. Its maybe a wee bit early to be getting excited; but I am.

Posted 10:37 14th May 2008
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