But Gatland (left) said: “If I’m getting up his nose, that’s nice. I’m not worried about Steve at all, he can say whatever he likes. We know it’s going to be tough.
“Let’s let the rugby do the talking because there’s been enough trash talking already.
“So let’s get excited about what could be a fantastic series.”
There is clearly a bit of needle between the two Kiwi coaches, but Steve Hansen appears confident his All Blacks charges have the skills for victoryGetty ImagesThe British Irish Lions are now busy preparing for their date with destiny against the All BlacksGetty ImagesPeter O’Mahony runs with the ball during the intensive training sessionSportsfile
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Gatland said the refs needed to keep a lid on the All Blacks’ illegal blocking.
But double World Cup winner Hansen said: “There is no point in trying to bully the referees publicly.
“If I talk about it then I am applying pressure and that is comparable to bullying.”
Warren Gatland has fought off allegations of ‘bullying’ and jibes over his playing styleInphoMaro Itoje was surprisingly named on the bench for the Lions – but he will be hoping to impact the gameInpho
Hansen also laughed off Gatland’s jibe the Kiwis were worried now the Lions have hit form.
He added: “If you’re worrying about something that hasn’t happened, make a plan to fix it so you don’t have to worry about it.
“That was good feedback from Warren.”
Lions captain Warburton on bench as O'Mahony leads the team
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