British and Irish Lions coach Andy Farrell says it will be “a bit different” watching the Six Nations unfold this year rather than leading the Ireland team.
The 49-year-old Englishman has guided Ireland to successive Six Nations titles, but is taking a Saturday out of the role to coach the Lions on this summer's tour to Australia.
“I'll be fascinated watching the sidelines – it'll be a bit different for me, watching the Six Nations from the sidelines,” Farrell told RTE.
“Not only that, [there’s] Big games in Europe, URC and Premiership etc. Good luck everyone.”
Farrell's Simon Easterby took over as interim head coach as Ireland cruised to a third successive Six Nations triumph.
Farrell succeeded Warren Gatland as Lions head coach after serving as his assistant for the 2013 and 2017 series.
He will prepare the Lions for 10 matches, including an opening Test against Argentina in Dublin and ending with a three-Test series against Australia in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.
Farrell added that he is just focused on choosing the right team for the Lions.
“It's always a head coach's job – everyone is always asking what tough decisions need to be made, but it's my job to do the right thing by the team.
“The team I will be coaching in the summer is the British and Irish Lions.”
