Award is for all of us, says Farrell
ANDY Farrell admits he was embarrassed by his nomination for world coach of the year as he attempts to mastermind one final win of an unforgettable 2022.
The Irish shot to the top of the world rankings on the back of a Six Nations Triple Crown and a historic series success in New Zealand before underlining that status by toppling world champions South Africa.
Defeats to France in Paris and the All Blacks in Auckland are the only blots on an impressive record of eight wins from 10 Tests ahead of this evening’s autumn finale against Australia.
Head coach Farrell was this week shortlisted for the World Rugby award alongside Les Bleus boss Fabien Galthie, England women’s head coach Simon Middleton and New Zealand women’s supremo Wayne Smith.
Yet the former England assistant was eager to shun the spotlight and divert attention to the collective achievements of his staff and players.
“It’s quite embarrassing really, in regards to you’ve heard me say plenty of times that we do this together,” he said of being up for the award, which will be presented to the winner tomorrow.
“When a coach gets any recognition, never mind the coaching staff that are top class in our group, the rest of the staff, the team and how everyone pulls together, we do it together.”