'I am delighted to confirm Simon's promotion later this year and it is recognition of his evolution and high standing as a coach within the Ireland set-up over the last 10 years.

Today's announcement ensures a smooth transition and continuity as Ireland looks to build towards an exciting few months ahead.

Over the last decade, Simon has moved from forwards coach to defence coach and he has played a key role in Ireland's success during that time.

As head coach for the Emerging Ireland tour to South Africa in 2022, he had a front-row seat as a number of players pushed on to achieve international selection in the intervening period.

It is our hope that Simon and his coaching team can help reap more positive performances in the upcoming Emerging Ireland tour to South Africa and then in the months to come.

'The 2025 British and Irish Lions tour of Australia will be shown exclusively, with all three Tests and six warm-up matches to be shown live.

The agreement sees the broadcast of its eighth consecutive Lions Tour, with the partnership starting in 1997 with the iconic 2-1 series win over South Africa.