The championship will represent Easterby's first time acting as a head coach since leaving the Scarlets in 2014.

While Farrell will return to post after the Lions Test series against the Wallabies, the former flanker is looking forward to his time at the top of the coaching ticket.

"I'm really excited," he said.

"It's something I've been around for a while. I've been involved in the team for 10 or 11 years.

"When I had the opportunity, when Faz had the opportunity to coach the Lions, I spoke to the Irish management around that and I was delighted to accept. I'm really lucky to have the opportunity."

Farrell was still in place for Ireland's November internationals, when the side won three out of four Tests, and Easterby says the pair have remained in contact since.

"We chat regularly," he added.

"He's got other things to think about at the moment, but we speak regularly.

"He's always on the other end of a phone call if we need him. I spoke prior to coming in and I'm sure we'll speak over the next few months."