British and Irish Lions

Warren Gatland is the "leading contender" to coach the British and Irish Lions in New Zealand next year says the Lions chief executive.

Wales head coach Gatland was in charge of the Lions' Test series-winning tour of Australia in 2013.

And the New Zealander is widely expected to retain that post for a 10-game New Zealand trip highlighted by three Tests against the world champion All Blacks.

Ireland boss and Gatland's fellow New Zealander Joe Schmidt would also currently be a strong candidate, having overseen two successive Six Nations title triumphs.

But Gatland, who was part of the 2009 Lions coaching staff in South Africa, would appear to be in pole position.

"It would be absolutely ludicrous of me to say that Warren would not be the leading contender - he clearly is," Lions chief executive John Feehan told Sky.

"If he is involved, it will be a third tour for him. He has a record that is pretty much second to none in the northern hemisphere, and so he has to be the leading contender."

David Cameron has responded to the apology by British and Irish Lions player Manu Tuilagi after making bunny ears behind the Prime Minister's head at a Number 10 reception yesterday:

See the photo of the incident

British and Irish Lions star Manu Tuilagi has said sorry for "messing around" at Downing Street earlier today after making 'bunny ears' behind David Cameron's head during a group photo:

See the pictures from the Downing Street reception

The Prime Minister has fallen victim to a "bunny ears" prank by British and Lions star Manu Tuilagi as they posed for a photo outside Downing Street.

David Cameron has hosted a reception for the team to celebrate their Test series win over Australia.

Read more: Obama 'bunny ears' prank at the White House

David Cameron has hosted a reception for the victorious British and Irish Lions at Downing Street to celebrate their win over Australia.

The Prime Minister told the players: "It's a huge honour. My son [Arthur] just because of you guys, has just started tag rugby. He will be so excited about this jersey."

Read more: Lions win first series in 16 years

The returning British and Irish Lions have wished England's cricketers luck in the Ashes series against Australia.

The Lions were returning the favour after England's cricketers sent them a good luck message before their highly successful tour last month.

The cricket team will certainly be hoping they can follow in the Lion's footsteps, who defeated Australia to win a test series for the first time in 16 years last week.