Scott Robertson 'likely' to be involved with Lions in 2021

In an intriguing new development, according to a report in nzherald.co.nz, Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson has hinted that it is likely that he will be part of Warren Gatland’s British & Irish Lions coaching staff for the upcoming 2021 tour of South Africa.

There had been rumours floating about regarding Robertson’s possible involvement with the team, yet, until now, no solid indication had been given.

"We've had some good conversations the last couple of weeks around the opportunity,” Robertson said. “I'm looking at potentially being involved with the team that could play against the Springboks and then stay on in some capacity.

"It wasn't an assistant role I was wanting, it was a learning opportunity for me, [to] help a lot around the professional development and support their current coaching group, it wasn't about being an assistant as such.

"Those conversations are continuing … it's a highly likely chance, I'm finding ways I can get there."

Robertson, a 22-time capped All Black, was passed over for the top job in New Zealand in favour of current coach Ian Foster, but all indications are that the Crusaders boss is hungry for international coaching experience and sees the Lions tour as a great opportunity. There can be no doubt as to his ability, as the Crusaders hoisted the Super Rugby trophy three times in Robertson's first three years in charge. They then went on to be crowned champions of Super Rugby Aotearoa earlier this year.

Should he be drawn into the Lions set-up, he will still retain his role with the Crusaders.