Warren Gatland
Warren Gatland

Warren Gatland out of running to coach British and Irish Lions again


Warren Gatland has ruled himself out of contention to coach the British and Irish Lions in 2021.

Gatland also revealed that he "hated the press and negativity" in New Zealand surrounding the Lions' 10-match tour, which was highlighted by a drawn Test series against the world champion All Blacks earlier this year.

At one stage of the punishing six-week trip, the New Zealand Herald newspaper published a cartoon depicting Gatland as a clown, complete with red nose.

After serving as Lions head coach in Australia four years ago, winning the Test series 2-1, then holding New Zealand across three memorable games, New Zealander Gatland would be viewed in most quarters as a clear favourite to lead the 2021 South Africa tour.

But speaking to reporters on Monday, Wales boss Gatland said: "I'm done. I hated the tour. I did. I just hated the press and the negativity in New Zealand.

"When I look back on it now, there were a lot of things that were satisfying and what an achievement it was, but it was tough work. It was hard."

Asked about potentially throwing his hat into the ring for South Africa, Gatland added: "I wouldn't subject myself to that.

"What I've learned from my Lions' experiences is how difficult it is to put some continuity together in terms of people and staff, and the lack of preparation time. Let someone else do it. Let someone else reinvent the wheel."

The Lions are odds-on favourites at 4/7 with Sky Bet to enjoy series success in South Africa, who are 6/4 outsiders.

There's 33/1 on offer for the series to end level.

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