Calveley is first Lions managing director

Ben Calveley has been appointed as the British and Irish Lions’ first full-time managing director.

Calveley will take up his role in mid-november, the Lions announced. He is currently chief operating officer for Six Nations Rugby Limited, on secondment from the Rugby Football Union. During the secondment, he has led the Lions’ executive team and staff.

Lions chairman Tom Grace told the organisation’s official website: “Ben brings strong experience to our organisation from his background in the RFU in particular, and we are confident that he will bring the Lions to the next level of growth and strength.”

During his time at the RFU, Calveley’s responsibilities included corporate strategy, policy, public affairs, international relations, project and risk management, fundraising and events.

Calveley added: “I am honoured to have been appointed as British and Irish Lions managing director.

“It is an absolute privilege and thrill to be part of such a unique sporting body, which holds a special place in the hearts of all rugby fans.” l Ireland stand-off Johnny Sexton believes assuming the Leinster captaincy has given him the drive to improve further after his “dream season”.

Sexton was a key player as Ireland won the Grand Slam and Leinster secured a Guinness Pro14 and European Cup double, before capping off the campaign with a series win in Australia for his country. But he is in no mood to sit back and reflect on his achievements, especially after being handed his new role.

“The captaincy was probably exactly what I needed,” Sexton said. “I want to get back out there, I want to train better, I want to do everything a bit better to lead by example. It’s been great for me and hopefully it will continue to be like that. I just can’t wait to get back now, I am feeling good body-wise and mind.”

Leinster kick off their Pro14 season against Cardiff on 31 August and Sexton expects they will have to work even harder to repeat their title success. “It was a dream season last year but it was last year and you know from experience you will be judged on your last game,” he said.