Johnny Sexton has made a surprising move to join Andy Farrell’s coaching staff for the British & Irish Lions summer tour of Australia. Initially omitted from the coaching roster announced last month, Sexton will now work alongside fellow coaches Simon Easterby, John Dalziel, Andrew Goodman, Richard Wigglesworth, and John Fogarty. The 39-year-old will also transition to Farrell’s coaching staff with Ireland after the Lions tour concludes.
Sexton, who retired following the 2023 Rugby World Cup, has a distinguished career, including five Six Nations titles. He has toured with the Lions twice starting all three Tests of the 2013 series in Australia at fly-half and featuring in the 2017 series against New Zealand, where he regained his spot in the latter two Tests after initially being benched. His omission from the 2021 South Africa tour, which he has openly discussed in his autobiography, remains a painful memory for him.
The intrigue surrounding Sexton’s coaching role is particularly notable due to the ongoing debate about the fly-half selection for the Lions. Finn Russell is generally considered the frontrunner for the starting No. 10 shirt, but Sexton’s past comments on Russell coupled with his praise for Owen Farrell adds complexity to the selection process. Sexton has openly criticized Russell in the past, noting that he didn’t fit the profile of a Warren Gatland-type player. He has also shared his admiration for Farrell, describing him as a “test-match animal” who can handle pressure situations. This endorsement of Farrell, despite his struggles with Racing 92, suggests that Sexton’s influence on the selection process could be significant.
Sexton’s views on other fly-halves, such as Marcus Smith, have also sparked debate. While he acknowledges Smith’s talent, he seems to prefer players who bring experience and a proven ability to manage games under pressure. Sexton’s own experience with Farrell, having toured together in both 2013 and 2017, provides further depth to his views on the fly-half debate, which could influence Farrell’s eventual decision.
The exact nature of Sexton’s role on the Lions coaching staff remains unclear, as Andy Farrell has not disclosed specific responsibilities for each coach. However, Sexton’s background with Ireland, particularly in mentoring younger players and focusing on kicking, may suggest a focus on similar areas with the Lions. It’s possible he will work closely with the backs, assisting in game management and refining kicking strategies. Sexton’s presence could also bring a wealth of tactical insight, especially in high-pressure moments, drawing from his extensive experience both as a player and as an informal coach with Ireland during the Six Nations.
In a statement, Sexton expressed his excitement about the opportunity to continue his coaching journey with the Lions, highlighting the special connection he has with the team from his playing days. He spoke about the challenges that lie ahead on the tour to Australia and the lasting memories he holds from his previous Lions experiences.
Andy Farrell, reflecting on Sexton’s appointment, recalled their first coaching relationship during the 2013 Lions tour to Australia. He emphasized Sexton’s passion for the Lions and the immense contribution he made to the series win, which remains the Lions’ only victory in the past 24 years. Farrell believes Sexton’s determination and experience will be invaluable to the Lions as they prepare for the challenges of the summer tour.
With the squad to be announced on 8 May, the addition of Sexton to the coaching staff only deepens the anticipation surrounding the Lions’ fly-half selection and the team’s overall strategy heading into the tour.
