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The Lions hierarchy would like Warren Gatland to lead the next British and Irish expedition in 2025, despite the agony of a near-miss series defeat by South Africa.
The tourists lost 19-16 to the Springboks at Cape Town Stadium on Saturday, a result which meant the world champions claimed a 2-1 triumph, just as they did when the Lions were last here in 2009.
Having presided over a series victory in Australia in 2013 and a draw against the All Blacks in 2017, this was a comedown for Gatland at the end of his third stint as head coach.
The Lions hierarchy want Warren Gatland to remain in charge for the tour of Australia in 2025
Although the Lions were beaten by South Africa, the hierarchy still have faith in Gatland
But as he flew home to New Zealand on Sunday, braced for a fortnight of reflection while in quarantine, the door was being left open to him to resume the role in Australia four years from now. Gatland’s post-match comments suggested he may consider an offer and it appears one is very likely to come.
Asked on Sunday about that possibility, Lions chairman Jason Leonard said: ‘I don’t think he will have a problem with us. The highest accolade that I can give
