Warren Gatland is expected to be named forwards coach for the Lions tour today as the backroom staff starts to take shape.
The Wales coach along with his assistants Shaun Edwards and Warren Howley will form part of the team that takes the Lions to South Africa next summer.
Despite the enthusiasm Gatland has shown for the role, the Welsh Rugby Union are thought to be disappointed that their coach won’t be able to take Wales on their tour of North America, scheduled for the same time as the Lions tournament.