Hugh Farrelly

1 week ago | extra.ie | Hugh Farrelly

Following the failed Graham Henry experiment in 2001, there was not much enthusiasm for another overseas Lions coach as the emphasis went back to culture. But then the calamity that was 2005 happened, and all bets were off once again. And, as it turned out, Henry’s fellow Kiwi Warren Gatland ended up with a distinguished Lions record after being involved with four consecutive tours.

1 week ago | extra.ie | Hugh Farrelly

There are areas where this Lions squad is stacked and positions where they appear spread a little thin on the ground. Out-half, for example. For all the British media fawning over Finn Russell, the talented Scot has been associated with too many no-shows on big days for comfort — a good few of them involving Lions head coach Andy Farrell and his chief out-half adviser for this tour, Johnny Sexton. Fin Smith and Marcus Smith, the other 10s in the squad, are skilful but unproven.

1 week ago | extra.ie | Hugh Farrelly

From the 1989 tour right up to the most recent trip to South Africa in 2021, the Lions have only tasted victory three times. it shows how tough these expeditions are as moulding a team together from four countries in a matter of weeks is extremely challenging. However, when it works, it is career-defining and there have been some remarkable performances in Lions red to savour over that period.

1 week ago | extra.ie | Hugh Farrelly

As the 2025 Lions tour prepares to launch, anticipation is high and the mood is overwhelmingly positive. However, history teaches us that it pays to be cautious heading into these expeditions, the heightened exposure and pressure-cooker environment can ruthlessly expose cracks in the operation, leading to bad decisions.

3 weeks ago | extra.ie | Hugh Farrelly

Ireland have named a decent squad for their summer outings against Georgia and Portugal, a progressive party laced with youth and just the right amount of experience. With 15 frontliners away on Lions duty, there is a rare opportunity for fringe players to hold their hands up in a way that could be highly significant come the next World Cup in two years’ time.