WHO COULD BE COACH IN SOUTH AFRICA?

WARREN GATLAND

Current jobs Wales and Lions head coach

Age in 2021 56

Only Sir Ian Mcgeechan has been the head coach of three Lions sides in the modern era, but Gatland’s exceptional record – winning in Australia and drawing in New Zealand – must make him the lead contender. Has hinted that he would like to do another tour and complete an undefeated set in South Africa, although whether he will feel that way after more years back on the treadmill with Wales is another matter. Probability 8/10

GREGOR TOWNSEND

Current job Scotland head coach Age in 2021 48

Only a few weeks into the Scotland job having won a PRO 12 title with Glasgow Warriors in 2015. Renowned for his attacking mindset as a coach and a former Lion in 1997, Townsend (above) is one of rugby’s brightest coach prospects and would be a natural fit in four years time.

Probability 7/10

ANDY FARRELL

Current jobs Ireland and Lions defence coach

Age in 2021 46 An assistant coach in 2013 and now 2017, Farrell is part of the Ireland coaching set-up having worked with England under Stuart Lancaster. Favouring a defensive scheme based around a rush defence, Farrell is highly regarded in Ireland.

Probability 5/10

EDDIE JONES

Current job England head coach

Age in 2021 61

Has lost only one of his 22 matches in charge since taking over as England head coach in 2016, with back-toback Six Nations titles and a first series win in Australia. Jones (below) distanced himself from coaching on the 2017 tour but has expressed an interest in the Lions job before the end of his career. Only contracted with England until after the World Cup in 2019.

Probability 7/10

JOE SCHMIDT

Current job Ireland head coach

Age in 2021 54

Similar to Eddie Jones, Schmidt’s contract with Ireland expires in 2019 when the former Leinster coach is widely expected to return home to New Zealand as a possible successor to Steve Hansen. Has enjoyed great success in Ireland, winning two Champions Cups, a PRO 12 title, plus two Six Nations championships.

Probability 7/10

ROB HOWLEY

Current jobs Wales and Lions assistant coach

Age in 2021 50

Like Farrell he has been an assistant on previous tours, with 2017 taking his tally to three having been involved with the 2009 and 2013 tours to South Africa and Australia. Often criticised for Wales’ results when acting as interim coach both this year and in 2013, but has the experience.

Probability 4/10