SIR CLIVE WOODWARD: Why Andy Farrell should stay on as Lions coach for New Zealand in 2029 - as he targets 3-0 whitewash aganst Australia
It would be the first clean sweep in the professional era, the first time since 1927. It would also be the first unbeaten tour since 1974 (Willie John McBride's famous 'Invincibles' drew the final Test in South Africa).
These are remarkable statistics. I'm sure they will be driving Maro Itoje as captain, the squad and Farrell. They can seal their place in Lions history. But it is very difficult — nigh-on impossible, in fact — to compare Lions tours.
The level of opposition Australia have provided hasn't been the same as in other series in the past. But the Lions can't do much about that. And the way they fought back from 18 points down to win in Melbourne was hugely impressive. That comeback will be remembered for a long time.
We knew Farrell was a brilliant coach but his reputation has gone to another level this summer. If the Lions win 3-0, it will go up again.
Farrell has to be the leading contender to be Lions coach in New Zealand in 2029. I don't see any reason why not as he has a contract with Ireland until the 2027 World Cup so will remain involved in Northern Hemisphere rugby.
I love that Farrell hasn't made massive changes for the third Test. It shows he means business and is taking this game as seriously as the first two matches, if not more so. The Lions is the pinnacle. It is no place for handing out easy Test caps. It would have devalued the Lions concept. But that is not what Farrell is about.
Farrell has stuck to his guns, making only two changes with James Ryan and Blair Kinghorn coming in. His selection has been consistent all series, changes mainly due to injury.
The Lions won't lack for motivation on Saturday. Conversely, I wonder if the same can be said of Australia. They put in such a huge effort in the second Test and still lost. My experience tells me it is very difficult to respond to that.
The third Test will be competitive. But I expect the Lions to pull clear in the final quarter and go three from three. That would start one hell of a party and one which would be entirely deserved.
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