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“It’s a very good decision. When one looks around the home countries it was really very difficult to have anyone else," commented McBride who was capped 17 times by the Lions across a record five tours .
Speaking to Setanta Sports, the Irisman added, “He’s not only been a good player, but he came through the amateur era and he’s proved that he’s a good professional as well, when you look at his record as an administrator and coach.”
McBride, who notched 63 Tests for Ireland between 1961 and 1975, was also convinced McGeechan would rise to the challenge of the tour.
"Lions Tours are not what they used to be in the amateur day, they’re a lot more congested now. I’m sure he’s learnt lessons from the last tour in New Zealand and indeed previous tours. He’ll be ready to cope.
“New Zealand, South Africa and Australia are very difficult places to play. When you’re away from home it’s always difficult to win, but he knows that. He’s been through it.
“It’s going to be difficult and after the World Cup they’ll [South Africa] be keen to show they really deserve to be World Champions. It’s going to be interesting and I think it’s going to be a great tour.”
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