Farrell’s reverse quantity in subsequent yr’s Lions collection might be Joe Schmidt, his predecessor in Dublin, who narrowly missed out on a profitable return to Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

Schmidt, who gained three Six Nations titles in six years as Eire boss, changed Eddie Jones following Australia’s disastrous World Cup marketing campaign.

And whereas the autumn marketing campaign has ended with back-to-back defeats after beginning with wins over England and Wales, Schmidt says he’s “heartened” by the progress his squad have made forward of the Lions collection.

“Possibly not but,” was his sincere evaluation when requested if Australia are “prepared” to tackle the Lions.

“However I believe and I hope our supporters and supporters of the Lions can see sufficient in what we have delivered in these final 4 weeks to suppose that they will be entertained and that it may be a contest.

“So, that is what I would like to see and possibly not but. We have nonetheless obtained some work to do for certain and I felt that there have been instances tonight the place we have nonetheless obtained some guys who’ve solely performed a few Checks they usually’re nonetheless studying.”

Australia won’t play once more till the summer season however Schmidt believes they will keep their cohesion and momentum.

“They don’t seem to be going to get loads of studying so far as Check matches are involved subsequent yr, however the Tremendous Rugby window might be nice for them to construct once more,” he added.

“I’ve obtained to say the Tremendous Rugby coaches, I speak to them typically and we’ll attempt to preserve constructing that momentum.

“By the point the Lions arrive, I am hoping subsequent July that you’re going to see a Wallaby staff worthy of taking them on head on.”