The British & Irish Lions tour saved South African Rugby
SA Rugby would have had to close its doors if were not for the British & Irish Lions tour last year.
Ian Cameron
29 Apr, 5:17
British & Irish Lions News
Explore all of the latest British and Irish Lions news right here at RugbyPass. Whether you want to scroll through the latest headlines or read in-depth coverage, our rugby gurus will keep you up to date with the latest British and Irish Lions news. Browse below for match reports, player updates and more.
Sam Simmonds' Lions tour realisation
Sam Simmonds says that last summer’s British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa made him realise how much he missed internatio…
PA
08 Apr, 16:05
The poignant 2021 Lions interview with the late Tom Smith
The British and Irish Lions have republished the now poignant interview they did last year ahead of the 2021 trip to South Africa …
Liam Heagney
07 Apr, 6:11
Tom Smith: The shy Scotland captain who did his talking on the pitch
Smith was a member of Scotland’s last Five Nations-winning side of 1999 and part of the successful British and Irish Lions squad…
PA
07 Apr, 3:27
Ex-Scotland and Lions prop Tom Smith has died aged 50
Former Scotland and British and Irish Lions prop Tom Smith has died aged 50. Smith, who was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer…
PA
06 Apr, 14:03
Lions hangovers: Five players who've struggled to find form post tour
The British & Irish Lions is widely viewed as the professional high point of any Home Nations player's career - but it doesn't nec…
Ian Cameron
10 Mar, 6:06
England and Lions lock George Kruis announces his retirement
England forward George Kruis has announced his retirement from rugby on his 32nd birthday in order to focus on his business commit…
PA
22 Feb, 3:12
How the 2017 Lions tour helped inspire Roger Tuivasa-Sheck's code swap
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck has revealed the 2017 British & Irish Lions tour of New Zealand played a major role in his decision to jump co…
Alex McLeod
15 Feb, 22:27
Waratahs confirm signing of ex-Wales and Lions star Jamie Roberts
Veteran Wales and British and Irish Lions centre Jamie Roberts has been allowed to quit Welsh club Dragons and join the Waratahs.
AAP
24 Jan, 18:11
Ex-Lions prop speaks out: 'Us fatties look at a scrum differently'
Former Ireland and Lions loosehead Nick Popplewell has posted an interesting analysis about the intricacies of the scrum and how a…
Liam Heagney
14 Jan, 4:18
RugbyPass Top 100: Picking the 20th to 11th best players in the world
The countdown to find the world's best player continues as the next wave of players included in the RugbyPass Top 100 have been un…
RugbyPass
12 Jan, 15:52
Shortlist for Rugby Union Writers' Club personality of the year award released
France star Antoine Dupont features on the list of nominees for the Rugby Union Writers' Club personality of the year for 2021.
PA
07 Jan, 4:46
'S*** it looks pretty accurate to me' - Rassie reignites Woodward feud
South Africa’s Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus has rekindled his rivalry with 2003 World Cup-winning England coach Clive Woodwa…
Rugby365
06 Jan, 4:20
England head coach Eddie Jones addresses Lions rumours
England England head coach Eddie Jones has put to bed rumours linking him with coaching the British & Irish Lions.
Ian Cameron
02 Jan, 5:13
2022 will be France's year - Andy Goode
There’ll be a lot of people glad to see the back of 2021 but rugby has survived, improved as a spectacle and shown there’s muc…
Opinion
Andy Goode
31 Dec, 4:16
Did the British & Irish Lions get their tactics wrong in the series against the Springboks?
The British & Irish Lions tour of South Africa was supposed to be a highlight of the 2021 calendar year but failed to live up to e…
RugbyPass
29 Dec, 2:13
Gatland comes under fire for Lions tactics again
Former British & Irish Lions and England hooker Brian Moore has described Warren Gatland's tactics against South Africa this year …
Sam Smith
28 Dec, 5:43
How the RugbyPass Hall of Fame Fan 1st XV looks so far
Throughout this week so far, the first five positions in the RugbyPass Hall of Fame have been revealed with a number of highly dec…
Finn Morton
03 Dec, 21:59
'I stirred over it for 24 hours, 48 hours' - Roberts reveals 2013 Lions dilemma
Two-time British and Irish Lions tourist Jamie Roberts has revealed how he had to hide the extent of an agonising injury leading i…
Ian Cameron
02 Dec, 10:39
Lions boss Warren Gatland lands new coaching role
British & Irish Lions guru Warren Gatland has landed a new coaching role - and it's another amalgamation team. Gatland will helm t…
Kim Ekin
29 Nov, 5:24
'I was p****d off': O'Mahony on calling out 'scumbag' Lavanini
Peter O'Mahony was furious with what Tomas Lavanini did in Dublin on Sunday and the Ireland skipper didn't hold back with his verb…
Liam Heagney
21 Nov, 13:35
How Springboks view Russell nearly 14 weeks after Lions decider
It was nearly 14 weeks ago when Finn Russell was thrust into the maelstrom of the Lions Test series decider versus the Springboks.
Liam Heagney
10 Nov, 11:02
On This Day 2004: Jason Robinson becomes first black player to captain England
Jason Robinson became the first black player to be named as England captain for a rugby union Test on this day in 2004.
Paul Smith
08 Nov, 4:12
'That cost us the series' - Rees-Zammit criticises Warren Gatland's Lions tour
Wales winger Louis Rees-Zammit has gone on record that he felt Warren Gatland got the British and Irish Lions tactics wrong in Sou…
Ian Cameron
04 Nov, 5:07
Springboks' forward wary of Lions sub-plot in Cardiff
The Springboks are well aware of a potential backlash from Wales, when they open their year-end tour in Cardiff next week.
Jan De Koning
29 Oct, 4:40
'One of the bravest' British and Irish Lions, Sandy Carmichael dies
Former Scotland and British and Irish Lions forward Sandy Carmichael has died at the age of 77.
PA
28 Oct, 3:06
'A noticeable step forward': Where Exeter reckon Lions helped Hill
Jonny Hill didn't have a great Lions tour but Rob Baxter, his Exeter club boss, has identified the growth that England will now be…
Liam Heagney
27 Oct, 3:26
French giants again rumoured to eye Vunipola signing swoop
French rugby paper Midi Olympique has again linked Billy and Mako Vunipola with a move to the Top 14.
Paul Smith
25 Oct, 5:25
Ten years ago today Gareth Thomas retired from rugby
Thomas won 100 rugby union caps for Wales and captained the British and Irish Lions at the age of 37.
PA
25 Oct, 3:10
World Rugby leak suggests Rassie Erasmus' ref criticisms are mostly correct
World Rugby will acknowledge that South African director of rugby Rassie Erasmus was correct about the vast majority of criticism …
Paul Smith
24 Oct, 8:50
Ex-Six Nations and Lions boss Feehan lands role in another sport
It was April 2018 when John Feehan was ousted as the Six Nations and Lions CEO after his 16-year stewardship of both rugby propert…
Liam Heagney
21 Oct, 7:14
'I took a lot away': The thing Ali Price learned most with Lions
Scotland scrum-half Ali Price has been reflecting on his Lions tour ahead of his first appearance of this season with Glasgow.
PA
21 Oct, 3:39
'I had one of my worst performances in the black jersey': Dan Carter's post-Lions lesson
His next start was against the Springboks in Cape Town which Carter called a 'reality check' as he was soon 'brought back down to …
Ben Smith
16 Oct, 17:51
England flanker Tom Curry the latest to criticise Gatland's Lions regime
Sale Sharks flanker Tom Curry has become the latest British & Irish Lions player to criticise Warren Gatland's tactics during the …
Ian Cameron
16 Oct, 8:17
'Not afraid to question things': Exeter bring back all their Lions
Having nailed a first win of the season with Stuart Hogg back last Sunday, Exeter have now included all their remaining Lions for …
Liam Heagney
08 Oct, 8:08
Rory Sutherland: From depression and a wheelchair to going on Lions
The Rory Sutherland journey to the Lions was incredibly arduous with career-threatening injury, depression and a certain Richard C…
Liam Heagney
08 Oct, 3:19
'A golden period...': Exeter's post-Lions view of new dad Simmonds
Rob Baxter has the latest on Sam Simmonds, who jumped from club rugby with Exeter into the Lions despite not playing for England s…
Liam Heagney
07 Oct, 3:29
Courtney Lawes has his Lions say after recent Henderson criticism
The name of Courtney Lawes cropped up when Iain Henderson recently reviewed the Lions tour, now the England player had had his own…
Liam Heagney
05 Oct, 6:28
The evolution of counter-attacking
Is the counterattack as we knew it dead, or does elite rugby still have a place for hot-stepping David Duckham-esque bursts?
FEATURE
Will Owen
05 Oct, 2:49
6 more Lions players - including Farrell - make Premiership return
The Lions tour ended on August 7 and eight tourists, including England skipper Owen Farrell, will now play in the Premiership this…
Liam Heagney
01 Oct, 6:54
'Hindsight is brilliant': Biggar's sharp words for Lions who criticised Gatland
Wales standoff Dan Biggar has questioned why certain British & Irish Lions teammates didn't speak out during the tour if - as they…
Ian Cameron
30 Sep, 10:39
How Baxter and Hogg have moved on from the Scot's Prem final axing
Stuart Hogg, the starting full-back for two Lions Tests, suffered a shock end to last season at Exeter by dropping to Rob Baxter's…
Liam Heagney
30 Sep, 5:14
'Sensible conversation': When Saracens expect their Lions to play
Saracens boss Mark McCall has been talking about when exactly his five-strong Lions contingent might return to action in the Premi…
Liam Heagney
29 Sep, 9:47
Number of Lions could return to Prem action this weekend
Some British and Irish Lions players who were part of the South Africa tour could feature in this weekend’s Gallagher Premiershi…
PA
28 Sep, 13:49
Lions cry off Porter celebrates return to action with Leinster try
It took a cruel injury to Andrew Porter to get Kyle Sinckler into the Lions and the Leinster prop needed 16 weeks before returning…
Liam Heagney
25 Sep, 12:29
Henderson: Gatland picked favourites, not form
British & Irish Lions second row Iain Henderson has suggested that head coach Warren Gatland had picked his team largely on credit…
Ian Cameron
23 Sep, 4:55
Another Lions player admits Owen Farrell won him over on tour
Another British & Irish Lions player has admitted that marmite England player Owen Farrell had won him over on the tour of South A…
Ian Cameron
19 Sep, 5:05
Lions pick Watson sweetly hits back at 'badmouthing' Stephen Jones
UK journalist Stephen Jones sparked controversy last April with his comments on Hamish Watson, the Lions pick who has now had his …
Liam Heagney
15 Sep, 4:54
Finn Russell has given 'dead chilled' review of the 3rd Lions Test
Finn Russell has recounted at length his recent Lions tour adventure on The Rugby Pod, the show hosted by Andy Goode and Jim Hamil…
Liam Heagney
14 Sep, 3:56
Lions' return trip to Jersey costs local taxpayers thousands
Admitting the British & Irish Lions touring party to Jersey cost the island’s Government approximately £22,000 in COVID-19 test…
Paul Smith
13 Sep, 7:22
England wing Jonny May breaks silence over much-debated Lions snub
Potent England winger Jonny May has finally broken his silence over not making the squad for the Lions tour to South Africa.
PA
09 Sep, 10:10
Eddie Jones criticises Rassie Erasmus as 'disrespectful to the referee'
England boss Eddie Jones has criticised South African counterpart Rassie Erasmus
Paul Smith
06 Sep, 10:03
Ex-Ireland skipper tips 'hard to miss' rookie for 2025 Lions tour
Having christened him The Cat in the Ulster academy, Willie Anderson is predicting big things for Ireland newcomer Robert Baloucou…
Liam Heagney
04 Sep, 3:57
'Wow': Sexton reacts to Lions tour snub and damning Gatland claim
Johnny Sexton has broken his Lions snub silence, speaking about call-up Marcus Smith and taking issue with criticism by Warren Gat…
Liam Heagney
01 Sep, 5:56
'Two coaches who don't have any belief' - Hansen unloads on Gatland and Nienaber
World Cup-winning All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has taken aim at the boring rugby showcased during the British & Irish Lions tour,…
Ian Cameron
29 Aug, 5:16
Worcester confirm signing of their third 2021 Lions squad member
Having already recruited Lions picks van der Merwe and Sutherland, Worcester have now signed a third member of Gatland's 2021 tour…
Liam Heagney
26 Aug, 11:07
'Rassie should be commended': Support for Erasmus as hearing nears
It was August 2 when World Rugby charged Springboks director Rassie Erasmus and SA Rugby with misconduct after criticism of the re…
Liam Heagney
24 Aug, 7:15
Finn Russell's former captain says he's so much more than just a 'maverick'
Former Scotland captain Greig Laidlaw has said he does not get the label "maverick" that is attributed to his former teammate Finn…
Josh Raisey
18 Aug, 4:59
Renewed call for eligibility upheaval amid 2025 Lions tour plans
Fresh calls for an upheaval of World Rugby's eligibility laws have been made following plans for Pacific Island involvement in the…
Alex McLeod
17 Aug, 21:34
'Lions tour could be watershed officiating moment' - former Premiership ref
Former Premiership and European Cup referee David Rose believes the Lions series could represent a watershed moment.
Paul Smith
16 Aug, 8:08
'That's the bit that would linger for me if I was a player' - Monye on Lions
Former British & Irish Lions Ugo Monye has said that touring players have a right to feel dissatisfied by the brand of rugby that …
Kim Ekin
15 Aug, 10:23
Stuart Hogg's burgeoning friendship with Owen Farrell
Stuart Hogg has been speaking about his new found friendship with England flyhalf Owen Farrell, who he says he bonded with on the …
Ian Cameron
15 Aug, 2:56
Finn Russell openly questions Warren Gatland's Lions tactics
British & Irish Lions flyhalf Finn Russell has publically questioned the tactics employed by Warren Gatland in the Test series aga…
Ian Cameron
14 Aug, 7:50
Former players and coaches call for radical change to substitutions
It is claimed the professional game “has become unnecessarily dangerous”
PA
14 Aug, 4:48
Rory Best: Over reliance on Welsh and Scots suggests bias in Lions selection
Rory Best has called for change in how the British & Irish Lions management team is selected to help stamp out any lingering bias …
Ian Cameron
13 Aug, 4:42
Baby Boks v Lions Cubs XVs: Who would win?
At the time of the squads being announced for the 2021 British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa, we decided to create our own …
Angus Savage
13 Aug, 3:47
A composite Lions/Springboks XV as picked by De Villiers, Roberts and Wilson
With a British & Irish Lions series that went down to the wire, the business of picking a composite team was always going to a…
Opinion
Ian Cameron
12 Aug, 12:08
'It couldn't be more obvious' - England star tipped to succeed AWJ
Former British & Irish Lions scrumhalf Matt Dawson has backed Maro Itoje to take over the captaincy of the tour to Australia in 20…
Kim Ekin
12 Aug, 4:00
Samoa back radical re-think of 2025 Lions tour to Australia
Seilala Mapusua is backing plans for a radical change to the British and Irish Lions tour to Australia in 2025
Exclusive
Chris Jones
12 Aug, 2:10
'Jason Leonard - a great convivial former prop but an abysmal choice as Lions manager'
Outspoken Sunday Times rugby writer Stephen Jones has launched a verbal onslaught on the British & Irish Lions’ senior managemen…
Paul Smith
11 Aug, 10:48
Greenwood backs Townsend to lead Lions in 2025 as he selects matchday 23
Will Greenwood has picked a British & Irish Lions matchday 23 to take on Australia in 2025, and has selected this year's attack co…
Josh Raisey
10 Aug, 9:07
Forget the criticism, pride should be overwhelming feeling for Lions - Andy Goode
The media is full of criticism of Warren Gatland and question marks over the Lions’ future but this completely unique tour shoul…
Opinion
Andy Goode
10 Aug, 8:56
'You're ****ing biting me'- Forensic odontologist testified in Sinckler bite case
Forensic odontologist Dr Douglas Sheasby said it could not be concluded whether the bite mark on South African lock Franco Mostert…
Josh Raisey
10 Aug, 5:21
The key questions to emerge from British and Irish Lions' tour to South Africa
The British and Irish Lions ended their tour of South Africa with a 2-1 series loss sealed by Saturday’s 19-16 defeat.
PA
10 Aug, 3:00
'Just dreadful' - The one overriding consensus around the Lions tour
If there is one note that former players, spectators and pundits seem to be finding some consensus on in the aftermath of the Brit…
Ian Cameron
09 Aug, 8:36
Life after Gatland - who might succeed the Lions boss?
As the dust settles on a British & Irish Lions tour like no other opinion is divided on whether Warren Gatland should remain in ch…
Paul Smith
09 Aug, 7:13
Finn wins hearts and minds | Lions Weekly Round-up #7
South Africa secured their second successive Lions tour on Saturday with a 19-16 win in Cape Town, as Warren Gatland's side let a …
Josh Raisey
09 Aug, 7:04
Ben Kay: This tour hasn't enhanced the Lions brand
Many will think it strange me saying this, but I thought in many ways it was a brilliant performance by the Lions. They put themse…
Ben Kay
09 Aug, 6:51
'Unease' over British & Irish Lions' return to Jersey
Jersey's Scientific and Technical Advisory Cell (STAC) said it could set a "dangerous travel precedent” by allowing the British …
Chris Jones
09 Aug, 4:57
'If rugby were to lose it, it would be a travesty'
The Lions are having to fight increasingly harder for their place in a cluttered global schedule.
PA
09 Aug, 3:00
Rugby Australia planning to include Fiji, Tonga in 2025 Lions tour
Rugby Australia are reportedly eager to include Fiji and Tonga in the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour of Australia.
Alex McLeod
09 Aug, 2:21
'Big Dean Greyling energy': Jasper Wiese goes out of control
New Springboks Number 8 Jasper Wiese brought raw energy to the pack in place of Kwagga Smith, but at times in the third test again…
Sam Smith
08 Aug, 22:38
Calls grow for Scott Robertson to join Lions after loss to Springboks
The British and Irish Lions have been called on to sign Scott Robertson for their 2025 tour of Australia after their series defeat…
Sam Smith
08 Aug, 19:14
Where this Springboks side now sits after Lions series win
These tools are used in a one-dimensional game plan to make up for the obvious shortcomings - poor handling, poor catching, incons…
Opinion
Ben Smith
08 Aug, 14:51
Five things we learned from the British and Irish Lions' tour of South Africa
The British and Irish Lions will return home nursing the disappointment of a 2-1 series defeat by South Africa, sealed with a 19-1…
PA
08 Aug, 8:29
Four Lions match play errors that proved fatal in the third Test
As ever, on small things do big match hinge, and so it was for the British & Irish Lions who failed to beat the Springboks in a th…
Ian Cameron
08 Aug, 8:24
Gatland has delivered a 'superstar' assessment of Marcus Smith
Marcus Smith was only with the Lions for four weeks of their tour in South Africa but he left an indelible impression on boss Warr…
Liam Heagney
08 Aug, 7:30
Warren Gatland suggests Lions needed more prep time
Warren Gatland has urged organisers to provide more preparation time for the next British and Irish Lions tour to give a greater c…
PA
08 Aug, 7:18
'I'll never say no to the Springboks, as long as they want to pick me I will be available'
South Africa hero Morne Steyn admits he had previously written off his Test career before stepping off the bench to snatch a drama…
PA
08 Aug, 4:52
Ref Watch: Kolbe try, Sinckler scrum pen and the lesson learned by the officials
“The biggest match outside the World Cup final” was how Nigel Owens described third test referee Mathieu Raynal’s challenge
Analysis
Paul Smith
08 Aug, 4:04
The riddle Gatland admits he can't answer despite 4 Lions tours
Warren Gatland has flown home to New Zealand admitting there is one Lions puzzle he has no right answer to after working on four t…
Liam Heagney
08 Aug, 3:14
How the Lions rated Finn Russell, their 11th-minute 3rd Test sub
Finn Russell playing 69 minutes of the Lions Test wasn't part of the pre-game plan but here is how coach Warren Gatland rated his …
Liam Heagney
08 Aug, 3:00
Rassie Erasmus made call to bring on match winning Morne Steyn
Springboks head coach Jacques Nienaber admits that Director of Rugby and occasional waterboy Rassie Erasmus made the call to bring…
Kim Ekin
07 Aug, 15:39
What Gatland said when asked does he want to coach the 2025 Lions
Warren Gatland has been talking about his availability for the 2025 Lions and the change that must happen before the squad tours A…
Liam Heagney
07 Aug, 15:38
'We were bold': The Gatland ruling on agonising Lions series loss
Warren Gatland cut a magnanimous figure at his final 2021 Lions media conference after his team were defeated 19-16 by the Springb…
Liam Heagney
07 Aug, 14:56
Springboks player ratings vs Lions | Third Test
Veteran Morne Steyn has kicked a last-gasp penalty to hand South Africa a narrow 19-16 victory over British and Irish Lions in the…
Opinion
PA
07 Aug, 14:30
Heartbreak for Lions as Morne Steyn once again clinches Springboks series win
Morne Steyn stepped off the bench to break British and Irish Lions hearts for a second time by landing a late penalty to clinch a …
PA
07 Aug, 13:55
'It's brutal, it's ruthless': Anguished TV verdict on Lions loss
Ronan O'Gara and Ian McGeechan, veterans of the 2009 series, have given their verdict on the latest Lions series loss to the Sprin…
Liam Heagney
07 Aug, 13:51
British & Irish Lions player ratings vs Springboks | Third Test
The British & Irish Lions player ratings, brought to you by The Famous Grouse.
Ian Cameron
07 Aug, 13:36
'When Russell comes on we either win by 20 points or lose by 20'
The Sky Sports commentators were left intrigued by the 11th-minute sight of Finn Russell replacing injured Lions No10 Dan Biggar. …
Liam Heagney
07 Aug, 11:38
The pre-match Gatland plea to preserve the long term Lions future
With the curtain set to fall on the 2021 Lions this Saturday, Warren Gatland has made a plea to preserve the future of the brand.
Liam Heagney
07 Aug, 10:56
Think Rassie's 26 clips were excessive? Ref Owens once received 48
The 2021 Lions will be remembered for the infamous Rassie Erasmus 26-clip video review but referee Nigel Owens once has worst than…
Liam Heagney
07 Aug, 9:46
'Amazing' Springboks bench pick has left Lions open to '09 repeat
12 years after he broke Lions hearts with a monster kick in Pretoria, 37-year-old Morne Steyn has been chosen on Saturday's Spring…
Liam Heagney
07 Aug, 7:20
The stats hinting Aki is a timely addition to blunt Lions midfield
The Lions haven't set the world alight with their attack in South Africa and they now revert to the June 26 midfield combo of Aki …
Liam Heagney
07 Aug, 6:08
'You do have to be aware of it': The Reinach threat worrying Lions
Fans feel the Lions have an edge with Faf de Klerk's absence but one particular aspect of the game of Cobus Reinach has tourists f…
Liam Heagney
07 Aug, 5:04
The third Test Lions selection McGeechan finds 'most puzzling'
Sir Ian McGeechan has pinpointed what he sees as Warren Gatland's most peculiar selection ahead of the British & Irish Lions third…
Ian Cameron
07 Aug, 4:33
'Outstanding': The Lions verdict as fit-again Russell makes return
There were fears that Finn Russell would miss the entire Lions Test series but he has made it onto the bench for the third Test de…
Liam Heagney
06 Aug, 11:09
Springboks drag All Blacks into boring rugby row with kicking barb
The Lions series in South Africa has been fractious, to say the least, and the Springboks have now hit back at criticism from the …
Liam Heagney
06 Aug, 11:04
Lions stoke the third Test tension with Springboks 'handbags' quip
Set for his third Lions Test start in recent, back-rower Courtney Lawes has called out the Springboks for the dark arts side to th…
Liam Heagney
06 Aug, 9:24
'Play touch rugby': Springboks hit back at Lions niggle play claim
Slow play was a frustration for the Lions last weekend but Mzwandile Stick has firmly insisted the Springboks weren't to blame for…
Liam Heagney
06 Aug, 8:13
The statistic that sets Elliot Daly apart from any other 2021 Lion
No one else has been able to match the Elliot Daly record in South Africa and he is set to come off the Lions Test bench this Satu…
Liam Heagney
06 Aug, 6:35
Lions explain why Biggar made just three measly passes in 2nd Test
Lions attack coach Gregor Townsend has had his say after much was made about how Dan Biggar rarely passed the ball versus the Spri…
Liam Heagney
06 Aug, 4:47
Lions respond to attack criticism, set points target to win series
Attack coach Gregor Townsend has come in for criticism over the faltering Lions attack ahead of the Test series decider versus the…
Liam Heagney
06 Aug, 3:45
Time for Gregor to earn his coin - Andy Goode
The British & Irish Lions have all the tools at their disposal in the match day 23 on Saturday and it’s time for Gregor Townsend…
Opinion
Andy Goode
06 Aug, 3:17
The verdict on Furlong, the Lions' second-most regular Test starter
The importance of Tadhg Furlong to the Lions is evident in his number of Test starts but the 2021 model is improved on the 2017 ve…
Liam Heagney
05 Aug, 9:37
The 'exceptional' reason why Lions believe they are ready to win
Poised for his first-ever Lions Test start, Ken Owens has highlighted a particular reason why the tourists are set to clinch the s…
Liam Heagney
05 Aug, 8:40
'You wouldn't be jealous' - Huge pressure being placed on Liam Williams
The emphasis on his ability to field high balls will have added huge pressure onto Liam Williams this week, says former British & …
Ian Cameron
05 Aug, 6:29
The Instagram post that brought tears to eyes of Trevor Nyakane
Trevor Nyakane hadn't packed down at loosehead since 2016 but the Springboks front-rower switched seamlessly last weekend from tig…
Liam Heagney
05 Aug, 5:56
'No disrespect' - The selection calls Lions standby Care just doesn't get
British & Irish Lions standby Danny Care has questioned Warren Gatland's selections ahead of the third and deciding Test of the Li…
Ian Cameron
05 Aug, 3:53
Gatland backs extra time call to avoid repeating 2017 series tie
Warren Gatland has made a late call for extra time to be allowed if Saturday's third Lions versus Springboks Test match ends in a …
Liam Heagney
05 Aug, 3:47
The forward battle which could decide Lions series - Siya Kolisi v Tom Curry
At the heart of a forward collision that will have a say on who comes out on top will be the back row clash between Siya Kolisi an…
PA
04 Aug, 16:33
Boring Springboks: 5 talking points ahead of the Lions' third Test
The controversial Springboks versus Lions Test series has one more left match to play and here are five talking points ahead of th…
PA
04 Aug, 10:15
Woodward claims World Rugby has charged Erasmus with wrong offence
Clive Woodward has been a vocal critic of Rassie Erasmus and he has had another pop over how World Rugby handled the Lions controv…
Liam Heagney
04 Aug, 9:19
Nienaber names his best and worst moments from Lions Test series
With one more match still to come versus the Lions, Springboks boss Jacques Nienaber has been reflecting on the past month's ups a…
Liam Heagney
04 Aug, 8:11
The Springboks tactic that resulted in Aki's Lions Test selection
The selection of Bundee Aki means Robbie Henshaw will have a third different midfield partner in the Lions Test series versus the …
Liam Heagney
04 Aug, 7:02
Fresh twist in Erasmus controversy as New York lawyers enter fray
The World Rugby misconduct charge of Rassie Erasmus and SA Rugby has piqued the interest of a vested interest in the USA.
Liam Heagney
04 Aug, 6:10
How absence of de Klerk could change the dynamic of 3rd Lions Test
Faf de Klerk has been a feisty Springboks presence in his matches against the Lions in 2021 but he will be marked absent this Satu…
Liam Heagney
04 Aug, 5:30
Why 2017 star George is one of 9 Lions unused in 2021 Test series
The tour four years ago to New Zealand was memorable for Jamie George but he hasn't enjoyed much Lions exposure in South Africa in…
Liam Heagney
04 Aug, 3:27
Why Duhan Van der Merwe keeps getting picked for the Lions
The South African-born wing has come under heat for retaining his place in the side after a test where he wasn't heavily involved …
Opinion
Ben Smith
04 Aug, 1:13
The World Rugby delay that left annoyed Lions calling Joe Schmidt
So annoyed was Warren Gatland over the belated Lions Test series TMO change that he contacted Joe Schmidt to seek clarification.
Liam Heagney
03 Aug, 11:48
The Lions concerns Gatland will raise at this week's refs meeting
Warren Gatland is due to meet Mathieu Raynal and co before this weekend's Lions finale and one particular frustration will top his…
Liam Heagney
03 Aug, 11:08
Lions explain half-dozen XV changes, why Russell gets bench spot
Warren Gatland has given his reasons for his sweeping third Test Lions XV changes as well as his bench reshuffle which includes Fi…
Liam Heagney
03 Aug, 9:29
Sinckler cleared for 3rd Lions Test as biting allegation dismissed
Cited on Sunday for an alleged second Test bite, replacement Lions prop Kyle Sinckler has learned his fate following a disciplinar…
Liam Heagney
03 Aug, 9:00
Gatland fuming with World Rugby over Erasmus misconduct statement
World Rugby have announced Rassie Erasmus faces a misconduct charge but Lions boss Warren Gatland wasn't happy with their statemen…
Liam Heagney
03 Aug, 7:40
Springboks make two injury-enforced changes for 3rd Test decider
Having drawn level in the series with last Saturday's demolition job, the Springboks have named their team for Saturday's decisive…
Liam Heagney
03 Aug, 6:57
Gatland makes 6 changes to his Lions XV for the third Test finale
Well-beaten in last Saturday's second Test, Warren Gatland has named the Lions team that will play in next weekend's series decide…
Liam Heagney
03 Aug, 6:06
'It's a hard watch': Sir Graham Henry's verdict on Springboks-Lions
Former All Blacks and British and Irish Lions coach Sir Graham Henry has branded the Lions test series against the Springboks as "…
Alex McLeod
02 Aug, 23:29
'Only time we saw that tactic': Cheslin Kolbe's lonely Lions series
World Cup hero Cheslin Kolbe was once again stifled in the second test against the Lions, making headlines for the wrong reasons w…
Sam Smith
02 Aug, 19:15
Ben Kay: The squad I'd pick for the final Test
These first two Test haven’t been short on talking points but sadly not for all the right reasons because the quality of the rug…
Ben Kay
02 Aug, 13:32
World Rugby statement: Rassie Erasmus and SA Rugby
Springbok Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus is set to face a judicial hearing following his controversial video criticising referee…
Ian Cameron
02 Aug, 13:08
Lawrence Dallaglio: 'Whether he meant it or not, Rassie got what he wanted'
Lawrence Dallaglio believes that Rassie Erasmus’ video helped the Springboks to second test success - through an impact no-one …
Paul Smith
02 Aug, 12:18
Down to the wire: How Lions have fared in previous series deciders
This is the third successive Lions tour where the series is still up for grabs in the final Test.
PA
02 Aug, 11:55
'The thing is you cannot replace Duane because you just can't'
Schalk Brits believes the return of the “phenomenal” Duane Vermeulen can deliver a third test win and a 2-1 series triumph ove…
Chris Jones
02 Aug, 9:03
'I should have torn it off so I could say I returned to South Africa with the guy's ear'
British & Irish Lions prop Kyle Sinckler tomorrow protests his innocence at a World Rugby disciplinary hearing.
Paul Smith
02 Aug, 8:37
Springboks hit back at Ian Foster and Peter De Villiers over 'boring' jibes
The Springboks crushed the British and Irish Lions 27-9 at Cape Town Stadium on Saturday to take the series to a decider.
PA
02 Aug, 7:19
Warren Gatland's 'calamitous error' according to ex-Lions tour manager
Former British & Irish Lions tour manager Donal Lenihan has said that omitting Liam Williams was a calamitous mistake on the part …
Ian Cameron
02 Aug, 7:03
Sale Shark among three more players added to Springboks camp
Springbok head coach Jacques Nienaber has added three new players to the Test squad on Monday - with Rosko Specman, Dan du Preez a…
Kim Ekin
02 Aug, 6:28
Springboks 'quite happy' with refereeing in aftermath of Rassie rant
Assistant coach Deon Davids described the Springboks as being “happy” with how the second test was controlled by referee Ben O…
Paul Smith
02 Aug, 6:14
Alun Wyn Jones expects Gatland to swing axe following Lions failure
The Springboks made it 1-1 in the series with a convincing second-Test victory on Saturday.
PA
02 Aug, 4:16
The lengthy minimum ban Kyle Sinckler faces if found guilty of biting
The incident is alleged to have taken place during a ruck in the 64th minute of the 27-9 loss to South Africa.
PA
02 Aug, 3:07
The last tactical advantage the British & Irish Lions have over the Springboks
Pride was on the line - the world champion Springboks were desperate to prove their credentials in the series that they had put on…
Opinion
Ben Smith
01 Aug, 21:27
Red-carded Lions' adversary gets Springboks call-up
Jaden Hendrikse, the Sharks scrumhalf that was infamously red-carded earlier in the tour, has received a call-up to the Springboks…
Kim Ekin
01 Aug, 14:23
Seven potential Lions selection changes ahead of the third Test
After a convincing 27 - 9 loss in Cape Town on Saturday night, British & Irish Lions head coach Warren Gatland has been forced int…
Ian Cameron
01 Aug, 12:54
Duane Vermeulen returns to Springboks camp
The Springboks have been given a major boost ahead of the third Test against the Lions in Cape Town next weekend, revealing that D…
Kim Ekin
01 Aug, 7:24
Springboks players had major role in planning Lions downfall
The Springboks recalibrated their high-ball defence to fine effect, dominated the set-piece and smashed the Lions 27-9 in the seco…
PA
01 Aug, 6:03
British & Irish Lions statement: Stuart Hogg
British & Irish Lions fullback Stuart Hogg has 'categorically denied that he bit Springbok fullback Willie Le Roux.
Ian Cameron
01 Aug, 4:49
Ref Watch: Am grounding, fortunate Kolbe and why Jaco Johan can take a week off
This change in temperature was in no small part due to referee Ben O’Keefe’s outstanding communication and game management ski…
Paul Smith
01 Aug, 4:30
Gatland now preparing for 'Cup Final' in third and final test
The Lions entered halftime at Cape Town Stadium 9-6 ahead on Saturday through three Dan Biggar penalties - but the match then turn…
AAP
31 Jul, 23:12
Lions fans have a suggestion for Warren Gatland ahead of third test
After last weekend's loss to the British and Irish Lions, Springboks director of rugby Rassie Erasmus took to social media to crit…
Sam Smith
31 Jul, 23:11
Springboks fans hail 'colossal' performance in position of 'concern'
It's fair to say that while some Springboks fans might have had reservations about the man entrusted with the No 17 for Saturday's…
Sam Smith
31 Jul, 22:25
The play that cost the Lions the insipid second test
Again, there is little between the sides, with twenty minutes to go at 11-9 and the game in the balance, the Springboks capitalise…
Ben Smith
31 Jul, 22:00
The Springboks' win over the Lions was a dire promotion for rugby
If the series between the Springboks and the British and Irish Lions is supposed to be the pinnacle of world rugby, the game is in…
Tom Vinicombe
31 Jul, 19:31
Accusations of foul play levelled against Hogg and Itoje
Accusations of foul play have been levelled against British & Irish Lions players Stuart Hogg and Maro Itoje in the aftermath of a…
Ian Cameron
31 Jul, 16:27
'We've lots of options': Gatland drops 3rd Test Lions changes hint
Warren Gatland now occupies the territory he was in eight years ago when the Lions followed first Test victory with a second Test …
Liam Heagney
31 Jul, 15:42
Gatland verdict on Kolbe yellow and what irked him in the 2nd half
Lions boss Warren Gatland on the contentious first-half tackle by Cheslin Kolbe on Conor Murray and general level of second Test r…
Liam Heagney
31 Jul, 14:53
Gatland: 'I won't be taking to social media to express my views'
British & Irish Lions head coach Warren Gatland has said he would not be taking any complaints to social media following the Lions…
Kim Ekin
31 Jul, 14:04
Bok-lash: Lions set for series decider as Springboks bite back
Unlike in the first Test that was lost 22-17, the ‘Bomb Squad’ had the desired impact from the bench for South Africa.
PA
31 Jul, 13:47
British & Irish Lions player ratings vs Springboks | Second Test
The British & Irish Lions player ratings, brought to you by The Famous Grouse: The Springboks have leveled the series ahead of t…
Ian Cameron
31 Jul, 12:32
'Control your teams': Yellow cards fire-up Lions-Boks first half
The Lions versus Springboks second Test was expected to be fractious and that angst quickly materialised in a dour but feisty firs…
Liam Heagney
31 Jul, 12:22
Gatland shoots back at Boks in a feisty pre-2nd Test TV interview
Lions boss Warren Gatland had his integrity questioned on Friday by the Springboks and he shot back in his pre-game TV interview o…
Liam Heagney
31 Jul, 11:19
Kolisi reheats row: 'I feel having manners is sometimes a problem'
Springboks skipper Siya Kolisi revisited post-first Test referee row in a UK TV interview broadcast shortly before start of the se…
Liam Heagney
31 Jul, 10:43
Nigel Owens makes salient point amid bitter lead-in to second Test
Nigel Owens has reminded fans not to forget the 'core value' of rugby after a particularly sour and acrimonious build-up to the se…
Ian Cameron
31 Jul, 8:19
Lions' Russell update: 'Probably sick of me asking how his leg is'
It was July 7, three-and-a-half weeks ago, when Scotland out-half Finn Russell last played for the Lions on their tour to South Af…
Liam Heagney
31 Jul, 7:01
Revealed: What Gatland does to bring best out of every Lions player
The Lions are one more win away from series glory in South Africa but what motivational tools has Warren Gatland been using to be …
Liam Heagney
31 Jul, 6:27
Former international ref brands Rassie's antics 'appalling' and 'cheap'
Former international referee Alain Rolland has branded Rassie Erasmus's antics as 'appalling' in a column in which he says the Spr…
Ian Cameron
31 Jul, 5:32
Courting O'Keefe: 5 talking points ahead of the Lions' second Test
Victory would give Warren Gatland’s men an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
PA
31 Jul, 4:59
'They climb into things': Lions mindful of bruising 1974 reaction
A South African book about how the Springboks felt about losing to the Lions 47 years ago has fed into preparations this week in C…
Liam Heagney
31 Jul, 4:12
Lions tap into spirit of 2009 for second Test jersey presentation
The Lions emotively tapped into the spirit of 2009 at their jersey presentation ahead of this Saturday's second Test versus the Sp…
Liam Heagney
31 Jul, 2:57
Justin Tipuric could be sidelined until Christmas due to injury
Ospreys captain Justin Tipuric could be sidelined until Christmas with the shoulder injury he sustained on British and Irish Lions…
PA
30 Jul, 18:14
Henshaw braced for backlash from 'massively dangerous' Springboks
Robbie Henshaw insists the Lions are ready for South Africa’s backlash when they attempt to clinch the series against the world …
PA
30 Jul, 18:05
Why the Lions bent the ear of scrum expert Mike Cron this week
Away from the furnace of the Lions versus Springboks war of words, forwards coach Robin McBryde was glad to take a call from Mike …
Liam Heagney
30 Jul, 10:55
'Exit rumours': Ex-Lions back on 'real' reason for Erasmus antics
Rassie Erasmus has stoked controversy with his antics, but an ex-Lions player has claimed the Springboks boss has an ulterior job …
Liam Heagney
30 Jul, 9:55
'Gatland went crazy': Springboks double down on Lions criticism
Springboks captain Siya Kolisi and coach Mzwandile Stick have backed Rassie Erasmus, accusing Lions boss Gatland of starting a war…
PA
30 Jul, 9:15
Why Maro Itoje has this week been a 'nause' about 2001 Lions tour
With the Lions are on the cusp of a rare Test series win in South Africa, talisman Maro Itoje has been doing some extra homework t…
Liam Heagney
30 Jul, 8:40
What Owen Farrell did on Tuesday to inspire Lions full-back Hogg
It hasn't been an easy Lions tour for sub Owen Farrell but Stuart Hogg has revealed the inspiring influence the England skipper ha…
Liam Heagney
30 Jul, 6:23
Most of what Rassie said is true - Andy Goode
Rassie Erasmus may find himself in hot water with World Rugby but most of what he said was true, it was an education for fans and …
Andy Goode
30 Jul, 5:22
Lions latest on Erasmus rant and what they make of Ben O'Keeffe
The latest Lions media briefing addressed questions about the extraordinary Rassie Erasmus rant and this Saturday's referee Ben O'…
Liam Heagney
30 Jul, 4:49
'Unacceptable' - Rugby Australia statement: Rassie Erasmus
Rugby Australia have blasted South African Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus following his hour-long video monologue about the firs…
Ian Cameron
30 Jul, 4:11
'Now I'm not a body language expert, but you can just feel it'
Tadhg Furlong insists the British and Irish Lions have drawn on their experience of four years ago to tap into South Africa’s ps…
PA
30 Jul, 3:53
Lions clarify Biggar situation after criticism over concussion
The Lions were criticised in the wake of comments made on Thursday by skipper Alun Wyn Jones about the concussed Dan Biggar.
Liam Heagney
30 Jul, 3:06
Erasmus alleges Watson wasn't the only spear tackle Lions player
There was much post-game debate about a Hamish Watson tackle but Rassie Erasmus has now turned the heat up on a second Lions spear…
Liam Heagney
30 Jul, 2:05
Erasmus fires back at 'quirky quotes' Vunipola after Kolbe lift
Lions prop Mako Vunipola had his say on Monday about his Cheslin Kolbe intervention and Rassie Erasmus hasn't taken kindly to what…
Liam Heagney
29 Jul, 10:57
'He's done a hell of a job' - Rassie's rant more masterstroke than meltdown?
Rassie Erasmus's hour-long video rant that was released on social media this morning could be a masterstroke, not a meltdown- argu…
Ian Cameron
29 Jul, 9:43
Lions address Rassie rant and give update on Biggar availability
The Lions, who are waiting on Dan Biggar's fitness, have taken questions about the refereeing allegations made by Rassie Erasmus. …
Liam Heagney
29 Jul, 9:33
'Respect shown to Siya compared to Alun Wyn was 2 different levels'
Included in the incredible hour-long review by Springboks boss Rassie Erasmus was an allegation Siya Kolisi was disrespected by of…
Liam Heagney
29 Jul, 8:37
'I will step way' - Erasmus releases hour long, rambling 'clear the air' video
Springboks Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus has released an unprecedented hour-long - at times rambling - 'clear the air' video
Ian Cameron
29 Jul, 6:11
The 'long discussion' that ended with Williams' cruel Lions cut
Warren Gatland has chosen 21 of the same Lions 23 that played last Saturday, with Liam Williams and Hamish Watson the only pair to…
Liam Heagney
29 Jul, 5:45
'I thought it was a bizarre decision' - Rassie's biggest strategic error?
Yet for scrum nauses, the British & Irish Lions versus the Springboks first Test in Cape Town offered up one particularly juicy su…
Ian Cameron
29 Jul, 4:54
Why Lions ignored call for No8 change by ex-tour skipper Warburton
No sooner had the final whistle sounded after the first Lions Test did Sam Warburton say Jack Conan should lose out in the second …
Liam Heagney
28 Jul, 10:04
Woodward takes another pop at Erasmus in his latest Lions column
Rassie Erasmus was critical on Tuesday of Clive Woodward at his Lions tour media briefing and the ex-England boss has now issued a…
Liam Heagney
28 Jul, 8:27
Lions boss Gatland predicts what would happen if he joined Twitter
Rassie Erasmus is busy on Twitter but Lions boss Warren Gatland has outlined one very good reason why he won't reciprocate on soci…
Liam Heagney
28 Jul, 7:08
The Lions joke Gatland has happily made at expense of Maro Itoje
Warren Gatland has reflected how Maro Itoje has gone from being England's biggest Six Nations penalty culprit to becoming a Lions …
Liam Heagney
28 Jul, 4:32
The Lions have stacked the backline with height for an aerial showdown
The second test will bring more intensity and an emotional charge from a Springbok side fighting to stay alive in the series, but …
Ben Smith
27 Jul, 23:43
'Hung him out to dry': Springbok coach defends Kwagga Smith
Springboks head coach Jacques Nienaber named a few changes for his side's do-or-die second test against the British & Irish Lions,…
Ben Smith
27 Jul, 20:46
The 'complete freak' Lions teammate that shocked Jack Conan
Jack Conan has backed “complete freak” Tom Curry to spearhead the British and Irish Lions’ relentless graft against South Af…
PA
27 Jul, 18:14
Gatland tells Lions to get the job done against 'desperate' Springboks
Warren Gatland has urged his British and Irish Lions to make their get-out-of-jail card redundant by completing a series victory o…
PA
27 Jul, 11:01
Erasmus quashes Twitter rumour and says Lions compromised 'integrity of the game'
Rassie Erasmus has accused the British and Irish Lions of compromising “the integrity of the game” by questioning Marius Jonke…
PA
27 Jul, 8:37
Ben Kay: I expect it to be spiky and extremely brutal
It’s a cliché, I know, but the first Test was the classic game of two halves. In the first half, in every key indicator showed …
Ben Kay
27 Jul, 7:15
South Africa bolster pack for crucial second Test against Lions
Jacques Nienaber has chosen to bulk up his pack this Saturday to keep the series against the British & Irish Lions alive.
Sam Smith
27 Jul, 6:46
It's time to debate whether Gatland is New Zealand's best-ever coach
With Wasps and Ireland, Wales, Waikato and the Lions, Gatland has been a winner. Maybe Warrenball didn’t win you over, but it su…
Exclusive
Hamish Bidwell
26 Jul, 21:28
'If I did hurt him then I do apologise' - Vunipola responds to video clip
South Africa boss Erasmus went on social media on Monday morning to highlight an incident from Saturday’s first Test.
PA
26 Jul, 9:39
Finn Russell 'in the mix' for Lions in second Test
The Scotland star missed the Lions’ 22-17 victory over South Africa on Saturday with an Achilles problem.
PA
26 Jul, 6:27
'I am surprised SA Rugby are allowing it to happen' - Woodward brands Erasmus 'comical'
World Cup-winning coach Clive Woodward has branded Rassie Erasmus 'comical' in his latest column in the Daily Mail.
Ian Cameron
26 Jul, 6:11
'Elephant in room' - Biggar's role in second Test questioned over latest HIA
Dan Biggar's participation in the second Test of the British & Irish Lions series in Cape Town has been called into question by a …
Ian Cameron
26 Jul, 4:53
Erasmus goes after Lions player's 'reckless and dangerous' act
Rassie Erasmus has gone after British & Irish Lions prop Mako Vunipola on Twitter after an eventful 24 hours on social media for t…
Ian Cameron
26 Jul, 4:05
Erasmus' social media presence under suspicion over a burner account
Now the former coach and Water boy is under suspicion for using a 'burner account', a fake profile used to voice opinions that one…
Sam Smith
25 Jul, 18:41
Warburton wants to sacrifice Conan as part of back row tweak
Sam Warburton has backed a recall for former teammate Taulupe Faletau to the British & Irish Lions starting fifteen - a selection …
Ian Cameron
25 Jul, 8:09
Springbok Faf De Klerk's warning for the Lions
The tourists won Saturday’s first Test 22-17 after a hard-fought battle.
PA
25 Jul, 6:30
Gatland faces cruel second Test Lions selection dilemma
Will Warren Gatland stick or twist for the second Test of the British and Irish Lions tour after victory against the Springboks in…
Alex Shaw
25 Jul, 5:44
The Lions went after the biggest weakness in this Springboks team
Tactically, the Lions exposed the biggest flaw in this Springboks team - catching and handling. They turned the game into a battle…
Exclusive
Ben Smith
25 Jul, 2:42
Ref Watch: Sorry, but the first Test officiating was too inconsistent
His post-match assessment of referee Nic Berry, TMO Marius Jonker and their touch judges concluded the team of four “had a good …
Paul Smith
25 Jul, 2:36
Springboks sealed their own fate with questionable use of bench
Hindsight is a wonderful thing but the Springboks' uninspired final quarter in their 22-17 loss to the British and Irish Lions sho…
Tom Vinicombe
25 Jul, 0:00
Springboks set to reinforce Japan-led approach to optimum performance
In 2019, ahead of the first World Cup held outside of the traditional rugby nations, Japan took a unique approach to preparing for…
Exclusive
Tom Vinicombe
24 Jul, 23:08
'Rassie and Jacques, you got seduced by your own importance'
The much-anticipated first test between the British & Irish Lions and the Springboks end in a 22-17 win to the visitors, but not w…
Sam Smith
24 Jul, 22:48
Springboks bomb squad fizzle out in second-half misfire
A key decision by Springboks management was to substitute the entire front row at halftime, putting hooker Malcolm Marx and props …
Sam Smith
24 Jul, 21:13
Officials were right to rule out Le Roux's try against Lions: Jacques Nienaber
The South Africa coach saw his side beaten in Cape Town in the first Test.
PA
24 Jul, 20:48
Where the Springboks reckon they lost the first Test
Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber said the British & Irish Lions outplayed his side in the second half by dominating the aerial bat…
Kim Ekin
24 Jul, 14:44
Gatland 'pleased with the officials' despite De Klerk try
British and Irish Lions head coach Warren Gatland has said that he is 'pleased with the officials' after the Lions secured victory…
Sam Smith
24 Jul, 14:07
Lions roar into series lead with superb second half in Cape Town
The British and Irish Lions came from behind in a dominant second half to seize an early lead in their series against South Africa…
PA
24 Jul, 13:41
British & Irish Lions player ratings vs Springboks | First Test
The British & Irish Lions player ratings, brought to you by The Famous Grouse. It was a tense Test match that delivered on physi…
Ian Cameron
24 Jul, 12:54
Sutherland to start as Wyn Jones ruled out of first Test
The British & Irish Lions have confirmed that Wyn Jones has been ruled out of the first Test against the Springboks in Cape Town t…
Ian Cameron
24 Jul, 7:52
Lions will be too much for undercooked Springboks - Andy Goode
Warren Gatland has sprung a host of surprises in his team selection but the Lions will be too much for an undercooked Springboks.
Andy Goode
24 Jul, 4:41
'That's rugby' - South Africa-born DVDM vows to ignore Springbok taunts
The 26-year-old wing will line-up for the British and Irish Lions in the first Test on Saturday.
PA
24 Jul, 3:55
Lions: Five talking points heading into the first Test
Only once before have the Lions come back from defeat in the first Test to win the series.
PA
24 Jul, 3:52
'We'll see' - Springboks' pack chief responds to Gatland's 'ego' comments
Head coach Gatland claimed the Lions had already dented the Springboks ego at the set-piece.
PA
23 Jul, 9:22
Harlequins 'disgusted' by comments made about Marcus Smith
Harlequins have said that they are 'disgusted by comments made about flyhalf Marcus Smith during a recent rugby podcast discussing…
Ian Cameron
23 Jul, 8:08
'He's a massive man. If you stand beside him he absolutely dwarfs players'
British & Irish Lions No.8 Jack Conan has been given a ringing endorsement by former Lions loose forward Stephen Ferris.
Ian Cameron
23 Jul, 6:10
'Sort it out World Rugby!' - calls for WR to step in over TMO appointment
The 11th-hour appointment of South African referee Marius Jonker to the role of TMO for the first Test has apparently left the Bri…
Ian Cameron
23 Jul, 5:18
'There's no plan B' - Furious Lions sit down with officials over TMO row
The British and Irish Lions have been assured by the officials overseeing Saturday’s first Test against the Springboks that the …
PA
23 Jul, 4:06
'We were quite happy with how the scrums went' - Wyn Jones relishing scrum battle
British & Irish Lions prop Wyn Jones is bracing for a tough challenge against world champions South Africa who are known for their…
AAP
23 Jul, 3:57
Lions team-mate has 'no doubt' Alun Wyn Jones is ready for action
Wales talisman Jones will win his 10th Lions Test cap just four weeks after dislocating his shoulder.
PA
22 Jul, 10:48
Flatman: Lions should consider dropping provincial games
Former England and Bath prop David Flatman believes that the British & Irish Lions should consider dropping provincial games in fa…
Ian Cameron
22 Jul, 5:19
'Pretty tasty' - Things boiled over in heated Lions training session
Inevitably coming into a British & Irish Lions Test week, tensions are going to be high, and so it proved this week as things boil…
Ian Cameron
22 Jul, 4:19
Pollard hits back at ex-Bok coach over 'boring' style
Flyhalf Handre Pollard has defended his team's playing style after former Springboks head coach Peter de Villiers labelled the cur…
Sam Smith
21 Jul, 19:32
The Boks hostility the Lions have their South African ready for
Saturday will be a rare sort of homecoming for Duhan van der Merwe, the South African who will be wearing a Lions Test shirt.
Liam Heagney
21 Jul, 11:38
RugbyPass 'Readers' Choice' Lions First Test XV agrees on 10 of Gatland's picks
The RugbyPass 'Readers' Choice' First Test XV agreed on ten of head coach Warren Gatland's XV picks for this weekend's titanic bat…
Ian Cameron
21 Jul, 11:12
The crucial message the Lions have given to benched Owen Farrell
In his 97 previous Test caps for England and the Lions, Owen Farrell has only sat on the bench 12 times so Saturday will be unusua…
Liam Heagney
21 Jul, 10:36
'It's an important meeting': Why Lions want to talk to ref Berry
With Lions team selection done and dusted, Warren Gatland is now placing great importance on Thursday's meeting with Test referee …
Liam Heagney
21 Jul, 10:04
'No one picked that backline... You've got to love Gatland. He picks on form'
'Wow' were the first words out of former British and Irish Lions centre Will Greenwood after Warren Gatland named his first Test 2…
Ian Cameron
21 Jul, 9:14
13 clubs feature in Lions 23, including Prem strugglers Worcester
Bottom Premiership club Worcester have undergone a summer transformation and have hailed their sudden influence on the Lions.
Liam Heagney
21 Jul, 8:28
Lions skipper Jones breaks silence after miracle injury comeback
Chosen as captain for Saturday's first Lions Test, Alun Wyn Jones has broken his silence about his miracle shoulder dislocation re…
Liam Heagney
21 Jul, 7:46
'Someone has betrayed someone's trust': Lions leak upsets Gatland
Warren Gatland has expressed his annoyance over his Lions Test XV getting leaked and will announce things differently next week.
Liam Heagney
21 Jul, 6:52
'Astounded' - The one Lions omission that fans can't get head around
He was probably the form player of the British & Irish Lions series to date, but somehow Josh Adams hasn't done enough to make War…
Ian Cameron
21 Jul, 5:52
Gatland selects first Test Lions team that is dominated by England
Gatland has announced a Lions team to face the Springboks containing six England players and three each from Ireland, Scotland and…
Liam Heagney
21 Jul, 4:04
Lions bring forward XV announcement by 24 hours as Times leaks line-up
Warren Gatland wasn't due to publicly announce his Lions Test team until 10am (BST) on Thursday but that timing has been brought f…
Liam Heagney
20 Jul, 12:13
What opened Watson's eyes about relationships built on Lions tours
Anthony Watson was only 23 on the 2017 Lions to New Zealand but that experience has helped ensure he is enjoying 2021's SA trip to…
Liam Heagney
20 Jul, 11:47
Nienaber: Why Springboks have diffused their World Cup bomb squad
A six forwards/two backs split on their bench served the Springboks well at the World Cup but Jacques Nienaber has now shelved thi…
Liam Heagney
20 Jul, 11:45
RugbyPass Fanzone LIVE | The Lions Edition this Thursday
Join the RugbyPass team LIVE this Thursday at 7pm (BST) as we bring you a special live show from London Welsh rugby club.
Josh Raisey
20 Jul, 11:36
Confirmed: Springboks versus Lions series will stay in Cape Town
It was July 9 when Warren Gatland first predicted the Lions Test series versus the Springboks would be completely played in Cape T…
Liam Heagney
20 Jul, 10:36
Mbonambi: The verdict that has added more fuel to Springboks fire
There is a lot of negative commentaries currently surrounding the Springboks, but Bongi Mbonambi believes it will only fire up his…
PA
20 Jul, 9:34
Lions players will learn Tuesday what Gatland's 1st Test team is
It will be 10am Thursday (BST) when the Lions publicly announce their 1st Test XV but Anthony Watson revealed the players will kno…
Liam Heagney
20 Jul, 7:32
Springboks name 1st Test XV containing 11 World Cup final starters
Jacques Nienaber wasn't supposed to name his Springboks team to face the Lions until Wednesday but he brought forward the reveal b…
Liam Heagney
20 Jul, 6:40
Ben Kay: Time for Gatland to roll the dice
The Stormers game was a definite drop in intensity from the South Africa A game and that won’t have been easy for the players, b…
Ben Kay
20 Jul, 6:07
Biggar issues 'don't stress out' message to his Lions teammates
Set to be the starting No10 for the Lions next Saturday in Cape Town, Dan Biggar has set the scene ahead of facing the Springboks.…
PA
20 Jul, 4:04
Warburton urges Lions not to abandon recent game plan
Two-time British & Irish Lions captain Sam Warburton has encouraged Warren Gatland's side to continue their offloading game, despi…
Josh Raisey
19 Jul, 8:35
'We'll be ready' - Lions physicality holds no fear for Springboks
South Africa flyhalf Handre Pollard insists his side will be ready for the British & Irish Lions Test series, which starts on Satu…
AAP
19 Jul, 7:41
The Springboks are waiting | Lions Weekly Round-up #4
Warren Gatland's Lions were able to put the disappointment of Wednesday's loss to South Africa A behind them on Saturday with a fr…
Josh Raisey
19 Jul, 5:53
Injured Lions make swift return ahead of first Test
Warren Gatland almost has an entire squad to chose from as Finn Russell is the only player ruled out of the British & Irish Lions'…
Josh Raisey
19 Jul, 5:23
The tech being used by the Lions to topple the Springboks
The British and Irish Lions have enlisted the latest player performance technology in their bid to topple South Africa.
PA
19 Jul, 4:20
Now we will find out if SA Rugby has tempted fate
Whatever was discussed behind closed doors, we now have the situation the SARU wanted, yet at every turn it is unravelling and the…
Ben Smith
18 Jul, 21:14
'Morne told me this' - Bok veteran's admission to White after shock loss to Bulls
Veteran Springbok No10 Morne Steyn has claimed the shock South Africa A loss to the Bulls 17-14 has helped not hampered the prepar…
Chris Jones
18 Jul, 9:37
How Luke Cowan-Dickie rates his chances of Lions Test role
The hooker scored a try as he put in an impressive display in the win over the Stormers on Saturday.
PA
18 Jul, 8:07
'I'm scared for them' - South African legend sounds Boks warning claxton
While it might already be one-nil to the Springboks after this week's unofficial fourth Test victory by South Africa A side, one S…
Ian Cameron
18 Jul, 4:26
The three Lions bolters leading charge for a Test spot
Cowan-Dickie, Price and van der Merwe all shone for the British and Irish Lions against the Stormers but was it enough to secure a…
Alex Shaw
18 Jul, 3:22
The two Springboks threats Gatland believes are big Lions work-ons
With the preparation games all finished, Lions boss Warren Gatland has pinpointed two areas he is targeting to shut down the Sprin…
Liam Heagney
18 Jul, 3:00
Gatland names his two most difficult areas for 1st Test selection
With all 6 warm-up matches played, Warren Gatland has named the two sections where it will be hardest to pick his first Test Lions…
Liam Heagney
17 Jul, 14:58
Murray keeps a perk despite Jones retaking Lions tour captaincy
With Alun Wyn Jones recalled to the Lions, Warren Gatland has explained how his captaincy chat with Conor Murray went in Cape Town…
Liam Heagney
17 Jul, 14:27
Jones returns but Cowan-Dickie steals show as Lions see off Stormers
Three weeks after sustaining an injury that appeared to have ended his tour, Jones completed 27 minutes as a second-half replaceme…
PA
17 Jul, 13:36
British & Irish Lions player ratings vs Stormers | 2021 Lions series
The British & Irish Lions player ratings, brought to you by The Famous Grouse. An error-ridden first half and game opponents slo…
Ian Cameron
17 Jul, 13:12
26-minute run completes AW Jones' miracle 21-day Lions comeback
Alun Wyn Jones completed his miracle return to action, playing for the Lions in Cape Town 21 days after a shoulder dislocation in …
Liam Heagney
17 Jul, 12:51
Habana on shock 'SA C side' loss and Erasmus again running water
Bryan Habana has attempted to downplay Saturday's South Africa A loss and the sight of Springboks boss Rassie Erasmus again being …
Liam Heagney
17 Jul, 11:36
Gatland hits back after tweets from Erasmus over Farrell tackles
Rassie Erasmus posted a salty tweet on Friday about Owen Farrell and Lions boss Warren Gatland has now responded to the social med…
Liam Heagney
17 Jul, 11:14
The 20-year Lions Test itch Scotland want scratched next Thursday
2021's tour has shown the peripheral role Scotland have had with the Lions in the professional era is over but can they gain Test …
Liam Heagney
17 Jul, 6:33
'Already leading like our 10s should lead': Lions verdict on Smith
Test level rookie Marcus Smith has arrived in South Africa accompanied by high hopes that he will go well this Saturday on his Lio…
Liam Heagney
17 Jul, 5:35
Lions series has gone up a notch, now refereeing needs to as well - Andy Goode
The 2021 British & Irish Lions tour went up several notches this week and now the refereeing needs to follow suit before we get to…
Andy Goode
17 Jul, 3:10
'You're in trouble South Africa': British & Irish Lions versus Springboks preview
The British & Irish Lions bounced back from their midweek loss to South Africa A with a comfortable 49-3 win over the DHL Stormers…
Josh Raisey
16 Jul, 12:17
Boks should worry about isolated Townsend's 'only silver lining'
Gregor Townsend has revealed how his week in self-isolation might have considerably helped the Lions crack the Springboks next wee…
Liam Heagney
16 Jul, 10:14
'While you're at it' - Rassie hits out at Owen Farrell as war of words escalates
Rassie Erasmus has used social media to hit back at Warren Gatland.
PA
16 Jul, 9:37
Lions give Finn Russell injury update after removal of ankle boot
Lions assistant Gregor Townsend is out of self-isolation and has delivered an update on the injury status of achilles-troubled Fin…
Liam Heagney
16 Jul, 7:40
Why McGeechan thinks Gatland has got it wrong with Jones on bench
Warren Gatland has recalled Alun Wyn Jones to the Lions tour but ex-boss Ian McGeechan believes an error has been made for this Sa…
Liam Heagney
16 Jul, 6:16
A form guide to the Lions' next opposition: The Stormers
The Cape Town-based side are the Lions’ final challenge before the Test series against the Springboks.
PA
16 Jul, 4:30
The message the Lions have given to Marcus Smith, their latest 10
Following his mid-tour call-up, the Lions have now given young out-half Marcus Smith a message on how to play as their No10 versus…
Liam Heagney
16 Jul, 3:54
Lions explain bench U-turn selection after the arrival of Jones
Warren Gatland initially stated Alun Wyn Jones wasn't available for Lions selection this Saturday but he did a U-turn just 12 hour…
Liam Heagney
15 Jul, 10:58
'How can he play Test match rugby against rugby's most physical team?'
Former British & Irish Lions blindside Stephen Ferris has questioned how Alun Wyn Jones can come back and play "the most physical …
Ian Cameron
15 Jul, 10:45
Hogg's 7-day isolation: 'I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy'
Injured on the 2017 tour, Stuart Hogg has reflected on his latest Lions setback - his seven days of self-isolation in Johannesburg…
Liam Heagney
15 Jul, 10:14
British & Irish Lions half-term report card: All 40 players rated
With four games now in the books in South Africa and four still to come, including the three Tests, the British and Irish Lions ar…
Alex Shaw
15 Jul, 10:00
Lions boss Gatland takes potshot at no-water water boy Erasmus
While Lions boss Warren Gatland was in the grandstand on Wednesday night, Rassie Erasmus was regularly running onto the Cape Town …
Liam Heagney
15 Jul, 8:34
'SA teams haven't changed the way they play since the age of man'
Lions lock Maro Itoje suggested in a post-game TV interview that they have the Springboks approach all figured out ahead of the Te…
Liam Heagney
15 Jul, 7:44
Lions give Biggar injury update, explain why Lawes is under wraps
Warren Gatland has provided an injury update on Dan Biggar and shed light on why Courtney Lawes has been wrapped in Lions cotton w…
Liam Heagney
15 Jul, 7:32
'If Owen Farrell doesn't show something, he may not be playing'
Former British & Irish Lions winger Shane Horgan has questioned whether or not Owen Farrell is likely to start in the Test series …
Ian Cameron
15 Jul, 6:53
'Reckless': Warren Gatland has revisited de Klerk yellow card row
Warren Gatland wasn't happy post-game with the yellow-carded Faf de Klerk incident and he revisited this decision on Thursday morn…
Liam Heagney
15 Jul, 6:23
Ref Watch: Faf's yellow, De Allende's blocking and why no penalty try came
Warren Gatland’s post-match comments were delivered in a typically understated manner, but nonetheless no-one was left in any do…
Paul Smith
15 Jul, 6:02
Warren Gatland names entirely changed Lions team to face Stormers
Having quickly licked their wounds from the loss to South Africa, Warren Gatland has named the Lions team that will play the Storm…
Liam Heagney
15 Jul, 5:23
South Africa 'A' player ratings vs Lions | 2021 Lions series
A Springbok-laden South Africa ‘A’ team brought the intensity when they faced the British and Irish Lions on Wednesday.
RugbyPass
15 Jul, 4:39
Warren Gatland has set a classic 'rug pull' trap for the Springboks
The physical, test-match level intensity brought by South Africa 'A' promised an appetising entree in what was dubbed the 'fourth …
Ben Smith
14 Jul, 21:01
'Too predictable': Lions fans convinced of con-job against SA 'A'
The 'A' side, laden with first choice Springbok starters by Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus, flexed their might over the tourists…
Sam Smith
14 Jul, 18:11
Gatland reacts to de Klerk getting away with contact to the head
Lions boss Warren Gatland has given his reaction to the controversial Faf de Klerk yellow card incident in Wednesday's match in Ca…
Liam Heagney
14 Jul, 16:23
British & Irish Lions player ratings vs South Africa A | 2021 Lions series
Hours before kick-off, the Lions broke the news that they would be flying in original tour captain, Alun Wyn Jones, after a miracl…
Ian Cameron
14 Jul, 14:54
Gatland hints what he will do with Lions captaincy with AWJ back
The incredible return of Alun Wyn Jones to the Lions tour has left Warren Gatland with a big decision to make about captain Conor …
Liam Heagney
14 Jul, 13:35
British & Irish Lions confirm Kelleher call-up, explain hooker situation
The British and Irish Lions have confirmed that in-form Ireland hooker Ronan Kelleher will join the tour of South Africa.
Liam Heagney
14 Jul, 12:47
Lions royalty give their verdict on return of Jones to the Lions
Ian McGeechan and Sam Warburton have reacted to the dramatic news on Wednesday that Alun Wyn Jones is to rejoin the Lions tour.
Liam Heagney
14 Jul, 12:33
Owen Farrell to start as Lions make two late changes
Owen Farrell will replace Dan Biggar in the starting XV for tonight’s clash with South Africa ‘A’ at Cape Town Stadium, the …
Ian Cameron
14 Jul, 12:06
Alun Wyn Jones recalled by the Lions 18 days after shoulder injury
Alun Wyn Jones has completed a miracle recovery after suffering a shoulder dislocation on June 26 for the Lions against Japan.
Liam Heagney
14 Jul, 7:37
Red-carded Hendrikse learns fate for foul play on Lions' Williams
Sharks scrum-half Jaden Hendrikse was red-carded for an altercation with Lions' Liam Williams with the scores tied at 26-all in Pr…
Liam Heagney
14 Jul, 6:20
How the Lions coaches have coped without the isolated Townsend
It's now a week since the virus burst the Lions' bubble and they have had to make-do since then minus assistant coach Gregor Towns…
Liam Heagney
14 Jul, 5:29
World Rugby give their view on Cowan-Dickie's Lions concussion row
The Lions were only days into their tour in South Africa when the selection of Luke Cowan-Dickie caused a heated concussion debate…
Liam Heagney
14 Jul, 3:04
Welsh Lions duo share thoughts on Jones' miracle comeback attempt
Alun Wyn Jones is training with Wales 17 days after a shoulder dislocation ruled him out of the Lions tour before they flew to Sou…
Liam Heagney
13 Jul, 9:16
Lions provide update on 'booted' Finn Russell injury situation
Injured Finn Russell is due on Wednesday to come out of the ankle boot he has been wearing following his Lions tour achilles setba…
Liam Heagney
13 Jul, 8:16
Even Harlequins were kept in the dark over Smith's Lions call
Premiership title champions Harlequins were in the dark as much as everyone else that Marcus Smith was being called up by the Lion…
Liam Heagney
13 Jul, 6:57
Watson switches positions for Lions to face supercharged South Africa 'A'
Watson, who has started just four of his 54 Test caps in the No.15 jersey, is one of three players retained from the team that bru…
AAP
13 Jul, 1:54
Gatland dashes hopes of 'five Test' series
Warren Gatland has welcomed South Africa elevating their ‘A’ clash into an unofficial fourth Test, but the British and Irish L…
PA
12 Jul, 11:35
Ben Kay: Gatland so much more than Warrenball
The biggest statement around the Lions and their gameplan came 7,000 miles away from Johannesburg at Twickenham when Marcus Smith …
Ben Kay
12 Jul, 9:51
Am to captain powerful South Africa A full of World Cup winners against Lions
South Africa director of rugby Rassie Erasmus has named a South Africa A side laden with World Cup winners to face the British and…
Josh Raisey
12 Jul, 7:04
The greatest challenge yet awaits | Lions Weekly Round-up #3
Warren Gatland's Lions seem to have emerged from their first brush with Covid-19 relatively unscathed, with the outbreak, as we sp…
Josh Raisey
12 Jul, 5:43
Murray handed first start as Lions captain against South Africa 'A'
Conor Murray will make his first start since being named Alun Wyn Jones’ replacement as British and Irish Lions captain in Wedne…
Sam Smith
12 Jul, 4:09
'I was disappointed with Dan Biggar... I think Farrell sees the space better'
Former British & Irish Lions flyhalf Ronan O'Gara appears to be backing England stand-off Owen Farrell for the hotly contested 10 …
Ian Cameron
11 Jul, 9:40
Major names culled in McGeechan's latest Lions XV
Some major names failed to make the cut in Ian McGeechan's latest British & Irish Lions XV, which he named on Sky Sport's followin…
Ian Cameron
11 Jul, 4:57
20 positive hotel staff tests result in Cape Town change for Lions
The Lions are heading to Cape Town and Warren Gatland has revealed a change in hotel staff policy can help protect them better.
Liam Heagney
10 Jul, 14:33
Gatland delivers a depressing update about Russell's Lions injury
Lions boss Warren Gatland has been speaking about Finn Russell and his injury after his team's second win over Sharks in a matter …
Liam Heagney
10 Jul, 13:54
British & Irish Lions player ratings vs Sharks 2 | 2021 Lions Series
The withdrawal of Finn Russell and Maro Itoje just 90 minutes before kick-off may have rattled the Lions and Gatland's men indeed …
Ian Cameron
10 Jul, 13:29
Marcus Smith's ecstatic live TV reaction to his Lions call-up
There were incredible scenes at Twickenham after England out-half Marcus Smith learned that he had been called up by the Lions.
Liam Heagney
10 Jul, 11:34
Marcus Smith gets British & Irish Lions call-up
England flyhalf Marcus Smith has been called up by the British & Irish Lions as injury cover for Finn Russell.
Ian Cameron
10 Jul, 10:22
Late changes for Lions as Itoje and Russell withdrawn
The British & Irish Lions have been forced into late a change after losing second row Maro Itoje to a gastric bug. They have also …
PA
10 Jul, 9:20
'Robin McBryde was trying to get us to agree to an 8/0 split'
After the Lions used a bench split on Wednesday of seven forwards and just one back, Robin McBryde had an unusual suggestion for S…
Liam Heagney
10 Jul, 5:55
The two incredible stats about Jamie George becoming Lions captain
Jamie George will become the fourth different 2021 Lions matchday captain on Saturday but it is two other stats that blow the mind…
Liam Heagney
10 Jul, 3:17
Blunt Gatland response to criticism of Lions from his ex-WRU boss
A question about critics of the Lions tour of South Africa from his old Welsh Rugby Union boss was put to Warren Gatland on Friday…
Liam Heagney
09 Jul, 14:26
Lions series victory hopes increase with latest venue change update
The odds on a Lions Test series victory over the Springboks are set to shorten following the latest fixtures update from Warren Ga…
Liam Heagney
09 Jul, 13:11
Lions make 13 changes to starting XV for historic Sharks rematch
Head coach Warren Gatland has named his Lions team for Saturday's hastily arranged rematch versus the Sharks in Pretoria.
Liam Heagney
09 Jul, 8:37
Sharks make 11 changes to their XV for historic Lions rematch
Club teams normally have to wait twelve years for a second crack at the Lions but the Sharks are now set to play them twice in fou…
Liam Heagney
09 Jul, 6:25
'Personally I can't see it being finished out' - Former Lion predicts tour cancellation
Former British and Irish Lions flanker Stephen Ferris doesn't believe that the series is likely to be played out, given the curren…
Ian Cameron
09 Jul, 5:48
'Bring it home' - Lions should seriously consider moving Tests to UK - Andy Goode
British & Irish Lions Managing Director Ben Calveley has seemingly ruled out relocating the three Tests with South Africa to the U…
Andy Goode
09 Jul, 5:23
How their coach plans to make the Sharks tougher to beat second time round
The Sharks, like the Johannesburg-based Lions, were given a healthy dose of reality in the past week.
Both teams suffered heavy…
Jan De Koning
09 Jul, 4:17
Ben Kay: The Lions had to go ahead
If the chaos of the run-up to the Sharks game hadn’t happened, I would have said there were a few areas of the game that might h…
Ben Kay
08 Jul, 12:36
Lions rule out UK option and insist tour continues in South Africa
There is a growing suggestion that the Lions should quit their South African tour and stage the series versus the Springboks in th…
Liam Heagney
08 Jul, 11:49
Relief for Lions as player who tested positive is now a negative
Lions managing director Ben Calveley has delivered the latest update from South Africa on the status of their bubble breach by Cov…
Liam Heagney
08 Jul, 10:50
Lions chaos: 'There will be a huge asterisk next to who wins this series'
Former British and Irish Lions winger Simon Zebo says there will be 'a huge asterisk' over the outcome of this summer's disrupted …
Ian Cameron
08 Jul, 8:59
British & Irish Lions confirm 'Plan B' opponents for Saturday fixture
The British & Irish Lions have confirmed that they will play back-to-back matches against the Cell C Sharks to "ensure the tourist…
Ian Cameron
08 Jul, 8:43
REPORT: Lions to replay the C Cell Sharks on Saturday
The British & Irish Lions at set to replay the C Cell Sharks on Saturday, according to respected South African journalist Brendan …
Ian Cameron
08 Jul, 6:28
'Very weak positive' could gift Lions isolated players within hours
The Lions spent eight hours of Wednesday in their rooms until those able to leave and play were scrambled by bus to Emirates Airli…
PA
08 Jul, 5:29
Lions' verdict on Navidi, their tackle chart-topping back-rower
Josh Navidi excelled on his Lions debut and he made a good first impression on Gatland, the coach who originally didn't pick him o…
Liam Heagney
08 Jul, 3:05
State of South African franchises under the spotlight
The British & Irish Lions second tour win, another 50-point battering of a South African club franchise, has put the spotlight on …
Sam Smith
07 Jul, 19:52
'Absolutely, I honestly believe we will have a Test series'
Warren Gatland was in bullish mood after midweek win, expressing full optimism the Lions versus Springboks series will go ahead de…
Liam Heagney
07 Jul, 16:24
Hat-tricks for van der Merwe and Adams as Lions brush aside chaos
The British and Irish Lions brushed aside the chaos enveloping their tour of South Africa to crush the Sharks 54-7 at Emirates Air…
PA
07 Jul, 15:17
British & Irish Lions player ratings vs Sharks | 2021 Lions series
Late Covid-19 chaos has meant that Lions head coach Warren Gatland has been forced into eight late changes to the 23 he named for …
Ian Cameron
07 Jul, 15:07
'There are people within the Lions bubble not double-jabbed'
Wednesday's Lions match versus the Sharks managed to go ahead but Lions MD Ben Calveley made one very worrying admission.
Liam Heagney
07 Jul, 13:46
'Our mantra the whole time has been chaos, adapt, change'
Warren Gatland was a picture of calm in a pre-match interview following a day of chaos on the 2021 Lions tour in South Africa.
Liam Heagney
07 Jul, 13:15
Lions forced into making eight late changes to their matchday 23
Wednesday's Lions match versus the Sharks is going ahead but only after Warren Gatland was forced to make eight late changes to hi…
Liam Heagney
07 Jul, 12:12
Wednesday's Lions match versus the Sharks is ON!
Wednesday night's Lions match will definitely go ahead following the retesting of their entire tour party earlier in the day in Jo…
Liam Heagney
07 Jul, 11:18
Can the British and Irish Lions' tour to South Africa continue?
Here, the PA news agency looks at the unfolding crisis.
PA
07 Jul, 10:41
'You really do fear for this tour now' - Reactions as Lions rocked by positive test
Serious doubts are mounting this afternoon as to the continued viability of the British & Irish Lions tour after the touring side …
Ian Cameron
07 Jul, 8:46
British & Irish Lions statement: Management team member tests positive
he British & Irish Lions have confirmed that a member of its management team has tested positive for COVID-19 following a lateral …
PA
07 Jul, 7:35
Gatland anticipating Pieter-Steph du Toit position shift
Moving Pieter-Steph du Toit to lock is not the worst idea in the world. In fact, British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland beli…
Jan De Koning
07 Jul, 4:20
'All the boys can see everyone's scores or tackle ratios'
The 2021 Lions tour is Warren Gatland's first in charge without Andy Farrell coaching the defence - Steve Tandy has given his earl…
Liam Heagney
07 Jul, 3:10
'How come the Lions' bubble is working?': Boks' bubble under scrutiny
Four players, Marvin Orie, Frans Steyn, Handre Pollard and Frans Malherbe, plus six among management, including head coach Jacques…
Sam Smith
06 Jul, 22:32
'Everyone's mentioning selection as if it's a negative for players'
Tom Curry, the last of the original Lions squad players to play, insists it isn't a negative for him that positional rivals have p…
Liam Heagney
06 Jul, 14:05
British and Irish Lions tour match postponed
The Bulls, who were due to host the Lions on Saturday in Pretoria, have suffered a virus outbreak as have both Springboks and Geor…
Liam Heagney
06 Jul, 12:25
'We have spoken': What Lions will do in case of Bulls cancellation
Steve Tandy has provided the Tuesday update on the Lions regarding a threat to their Bulls game and an injury concern involving St…
Liam Heagney
06 Jul, 8:29
Next Saturday's Bulls vs Lions match under threat of cancellation
The Bulls were set to host the Lions next Saturday in Pretoria but a doubt has now emerged about that match going ahead as planned…
Liam Heagney
06 Jul, 6:48
Lions concussion row: 'I don't how much more I can talk about it'
Warren Gatland has revisited the Luke Cowan-Dickie controversy, the hooker playing for the Lions 7 days after Premiership final co…
Liam Heagney
06 Jul, 5:26
'I had to blind Rossouw': O'Driscoll on his famous Springbok tackle
A key figure that match, Irish centre Brian O'Driscoll, remembers the aftermath of a defining game in test rugby. Speaking on beha…
Sam Smith
06 Jul, 0:06
Warren Gatland weighs in on what Elliot Daly's strongest position is
Elliot Daly and Warren Gatland are unified in seeing outside centre as the versatile England back’s most dangerous position.
PA
05 Jul, 13:55
Gatland gives free rein to devastating Lions back-row against the Sharks
Tom Curry and his back-row colleagues have been instructed to go on the rampage when the British and Irish Lions clash with the Sh…
PA
05 Jul, 9:38
South Africa match at risk after positive test forces squad into isolation
South Africa’s clash with Georgia on Friday night is in jeopardy after the Springboks were forced to suspend training and place …
PA
05 Jul, 7:49
Entering Shark infested waters | Lions Weekly Round-up #2
The British & Irish Lions Weekly round-up, brought to you by The Famous Grouse
Ian Cameron
05 Jul, 4:48
Three Lions debutants to face Cell C Sharks this Wednesday
Warren Gatland has named his British and Irish Lions side to face Cell C Sharks at Emirates Airline Park this Wednesday, and the X…
Sam Smith
05 Jul, 4:10
Five things we learned from the Lions' opening win on South African soil
The British and Irish Lions launched their tour in South Africa by crushing the Sigma Lions 56-14 in Johannesburg. Here the PA new…
PA
05 Jul, 3:44
Courtney Lawes playing himself into Test contention - Ben Kay
My first message would be, let’s not get carried away. Before the game, the Sigma Lions had the worst defensive record of any of…
Ben Kay
05 Jul, 2:05
Stuart Hogg wants Lions to dominate the 'no-talent battles'
Stuart Hogg insists the British and Irish Lions aim to make a virtue of winning in-game moments that require determination over ar…
PA
05 Jul, 2:04
RG Snyman undergoes skin graft surgery, set to miss Lions
Munster second row RG Snyman is unlikely to feature for the Springboks during the British & Irish Lions series after undergoing sk…
Ian Cameron
04 Jul, 11:13
Ref Watch: The worrisome early Lions tour refereeing trend
Pre-test series warm-up matches in most sports these days leave a little to be desired.
Paul Smith
04 Jul, 10:06
Springboks will 'come for' the British & Irish Lions at scrum time
The set-piece was an important part of the Springboks' World Cup final win over England, dominating them there after they lost the…
Sam Smith
04 Jul, 2:53
'Will break every record': Louis Rees-Zammit 'must start' tests
It didn't take long for Welsh wonderkid Louis Rees-Zammit to make an impact in his debut for the British & Irish Lions, scoring a …
Sam Smith
04 Jul, 0:31
Irish pundits not impressed by Finn Russell in his first showing
The pair of Irish pundits, speaking on Virgin Media Sports post-match coverage, weren't convinced Russell is the right man to st…
Sam Smith
03 Jul, 20:57
'He runs a million miles an hour and makes 20 million tackles'
A man of the match display was quite a way for Hamish Watson to tackle critics who said he was too small to play for the Lions.
Liam Heagney
03 Jul, 14:39
The 3 things that most pleased Gatland in Saturday's Lions win
The Lions looked promising in their first match on South Africa soil, winning 56-14 and pleasing Warren Gatland in three particula…
Liam Heagney
03 Jul, 14:07
Four-try Josh Adams helps rampant British and Irish Lions open tour with big win
The tourists ran out 56-14 victors over the Sigma Lions in Johannesbu.
PA
03 Jul, 13:48
Gatland responds to criticism of Cowan-Dickie's Lions selection
Warren Gatland has used his pre-game Lions TV interview to address the controversy over his selection of sub Luke Cowan-Dickie.
Liam Heagney
03 Jul, 10:58
O'Brien sticking by controversial 2017 Lions tour comments
Former British & Irish Lions flanker Sean O'Brien is sticking by comments he made after returning from the Lions' drawn 2017 serie…
Ian Cameron
03 Jul, 5:32
Warren Gatland: I still 'nervous pooh' before big games
The British and Irish Lions boss will be racked with tension when he takes charge of Saturday’s opening fixture on South African…
PA
03 Jul, 5:02
'I am absolutely disgusted... A stain on our great game' - Bracken lashes Lions
Former England scrum-half Kyran Bracken has hit out at the British & Irish Lions over the selection of Exeter Chiefs hooker Luke C…
Ian Cameron
02 Jul, 10:34
Form, coach, key players: What the B&I Lions are facing in the Sigma Lions
The British and Irish Lions kick off their tour to South Africa with a match against namesakes the Sigma Lions in Johannesburg on …
PA
02 Jul, 9:15
'We're keeping open mind': Jones targets miracle Lions return
Warren Gatland had told travelling UK reporters in South Africa that stricken skipper Alun Wyn Jones is targeting a miracle Lions …
Liam Heagney
02 Jul, 3:52
Hole in one jump-started Jonny Hill's journey to Lions starter
The Exeter second row will line up against Sigma Lions this weekend.
PA
02 Jul, 3:13
The one phone call Hogg plans to make before captaining the Lions
Stuart Hogg has set himself a promise before he leads out the Lions as captain for this Saturday's match in Johannesburg.
Liam Heagney
01 Jul, 13:55
Farrell on what happened between Gatland, Ryan and the Lions
The second row was tipped to replace the injured Alun Wyn Jones with the Lions.
PA
01 Jul, 13:33
What the Lions make of their 10/12 Russell/Farrell combination
Owen Farrell was specifically picked in May as a Lions out-half but he finds himself at No12 outside Finn Russell for this Saturda…
Liam Heagney
01 Jul, 12:19
One of three Boks deployed as British & Irish Lions first SA opposition named
Lions coach Ivan van Rooyen has opted to push some of the younger players into the frontline against the British and Irish Lions o…
Kim Ekin
01 Jul, 12:01
'I redeclare my James Ryan outrage' - Beard was Gatland's preference all along
James Ryan's recovery from an abductor injury to captain Ireland against Japan on the weekend suggests that Warren Gatland's decis…
Ian Cameron
01 Jul, 9:59
The 10 Lions players poised to start Sharks game next Wednesday
With Warren Gatland giving starts to 29 players in the first two games, it leaves just 10 more awaiting a promised first Lions sta…
Liam Heagney
01 Jul, 9:49
Lions give an update on two minor injuries that needed injections
After an Edinburgh weekend dominated by injuries, Warren Gatland has delivered an encouraging Lions medical bulletin from South Af…
Liam Heagney
01 Jul, 9:01
'I regret the way I behaved towards the six players... f***ing bulls*** from me'
England prop Joe Marler has admitted that he regrets the way he behaved towards the six late British and Irish Lions call-ups on t…
Ian Cameron
01 Jul, 8:53
'A sensible decision' - Lions match moved to avoid football clash
Both the British & Irish Lions and SA Rugby have confirmed that they are to move the Lions vs Sharks fixture forward to avoid a cl…
Sam Smith
01 Jul, 8:10
'He looks very beatable on the inside' - Lions rookie could be exploited
Former British and Irish Lions back row Stephen Ferris believes that Scotland winger Duhan van der Merwe has plenty to prove after…
Ian Cameron
01 Jul, 7:42
Lions vs Lions | Live Team Reaction & Game Preview
Jim Hamilton, Andy Goode, Stephen Ferris and Tom Shanklin are live with you as they react to the announcement of the British & Iri…
AAP
01 Jul, 5:04
Gatland makes 14 changes to Lions XV to face Emirates Lions
Warren Gatland has named the British and Irish Lions team that will take on the Emirates Lions this Saturday in Johannesburg.
Liam Heagney
01 Jul, 4:05
Finn Russell says he can be trusted for Lions despite maverick tag
Finn Russell insists he can be entrusted to execute the British and Irish Lions’ gameplan against South Africa in defiance of hi…
PA
30 Jun, 17:30
Murray replies to captain guaranteed Lions Test shirt speculation
There is a feeling that because he has been appointed Lions captain that Conor Murray must be guaranteed to start as the Test No9.…
Liam Heagney
30 Jun, 11:59
A huge Lions focus: 'Scrum sessions so far have been pretty tasty'
A part of the England scrum dismantled by the Springboks in November 2019, Jamie George know where the Lions must be rock solid. …
Liam Heagney
30 Jun, 6:52
How Wales have reacted to Alun Wyn Jones' Lions tour-ending injury
Wayne Pivac has been talking about Wales skipper Alun Wyn Jones getting ruled out of the Lions tour after suffering a shoulder inj…
PA
30 Jun, 5:46
Lions hooker Jamie George names and shames 'worst committee ever'
Lions players and staff have various tour committees and entertainments committee member Jamie George has named the worst.
Liam Heagney
30 Jun, 2:58
It's night and day between Handre Pollard and the Lions flyhalves
The difference for the Lions pivots is they shoulder a much heavier burden. And should they win, they will likely deserve an unequ…
Ben Smith
29 Jun, 22:47
Returning Springbok Handre Pollard looking to inflict 'damage' on Georgia
When he returns to test rugby against Georgia this weekend, it will complete a long journey back which Pollard says has prepared h…
Sam Smith
29 Jun, 19:37
In pictures: The Lions begin training in South Africa
Lions captain Conor Murray has been speaking on the day his squad got down to work in Johannesburg following their arrival in Sout…
Liam Heagney
29 Jun, 12:26
2017 Lions 1st Test skipper has his say on new 2021 captain Murray
Conor Murray is poised to do what fellow Irishman Peter O'Mahony did in 2017 and skipper the Lions in a Test series match.
PA
29 Jun, 11:18
What injured Jones said to new skipper Murray before the Lions flew to South Africa
New Lions skipper Conor Murray has revealed what advice the injured Alun Wyn Jones gave to him last Sunday as they went their sepa…
Liam Heagney
29 Jun, 8:44
Springboks boss Nienaber addresses growing cancellation fears over Lions tour
Springboks boss Jacques Nienaber has reacted to speculation that the Lions tour is in jeopardy following recent worrying developme…
Liam Heagney
29 Jun, 8:09
Another worrying Lions sign: South African grassroots rugby grinds to complete halt
The Lions have arrived in South Africa at the same times as the shutting down of grassroots rugby in the country due to the pandem…
Kim Ekin
29 Jun, 3:57
Lions vs Lions: Gatland's men to face old foe from 2009 tour
The Lions have revealed their squad to face British and Irish Lions on Saturday. The South African franchise revealed a 26-man squ…
RugbyPass
28 Jun, 9:45
Hammer blow for Gatland | Lions Weekly Round-up #1
The British & Irish Lions Weekly round-up, brought to you by The Famous Grouse... Warren Gatland was dealt a hammer blow to...
Josh Raisey
28 Jun, 5:44
Lions injuries see Wales add four players to squad
Wales have been forced to call up four players into their summer training squad after Warren Gatland dipped into their playing poo…
Ian Cameron
28 Jun, 4:14
Springbok coaches offer verdict on Conor Murray getting the Lions captaincy
The appointment of Irish halfback Conor Murray as captain of the British & Irish Lions is a familiar one for Springbok head coach …
Sam Smith
27 Jun, 18:58
'Things move so quickly on these tours': Dan Biggar feels for Alun Wyn Jones but urges Lions to move forward
Jones has returned home to Wales to begin treatment on the cruel injury incurred just seven minutes into Saturday’s 28-10 victor…
PA
27 Jun, 18:26
Murray not the leftfield captaincy choice people are making out - Andy Goode
Conor Murray’s promotion to British & Irish Lions captain seems to have caused shockwaves across the rugby world but it really s…
Andy Goode
27 Jun, 9:50
Ref Watch: Lions let off hook in phoney war, Carley delivers on big stage
Wayne Barnes and Nick Mullins have become two staple items at Gallagher Premiership finals in recent years.
Paul Smith
27 Jun, 8:49
Springboks cancel training, confirm positive Tests in camp
The Springboks have confirmed that three players have tested for Covid-19 and that they have cancelled their Sunday training as a …
Ian Cameron
27 Jun, 6:50
'I can promise you, when I went back to the changing room, I destroyed everything'
Romain Poite is as disarmingly honest off the field as he is firm and resolved on it. The public persona – the game face – is …
Jamie Lyall
27 Jun, 2:42
'I could feel where I have grown': Japan star talks up Super Rugby stint following historic Lions match
He may have only entered the fray in the 52nd minute but Japan loose forward Kazuki Himeno still made a big impact in his team's c…
Sam Smith
27 Jun, 0:17
'Exactly how you want to see the game played': Greater test exposure demanded for 'glorious' Japan
While it was the British and Irish Lions who scored the victory, it was the performance of Japan who had many raving following the…
Sam Smith
26 Jun, 23:06
The four contenders to replace Alun Wyn Jones as Lions captain
Jones will not be going to South Africa after he dislocated his shoulder on Saturday.
PA
26 Jun, 14:03
'That could rule him out' - Tipuric not out of woods but Gatland optimistic
British & Irish Lions head coach Warren Gatland has given an optimistic update on injured flanker Justin Tipruic to offer some rel…
PA
26 Jun, 12:23
Captain Alun Wyn Jones ruled out of Lions tour
Alun Wyn Jones has been ruled out of the British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa after suffering a dislocated shoulder in the…
PA
26 Jun, 11:53
Lions roar against Japan but injuries to Jones and Tipuric take shine off victory
The Lions got their 2021 tour off to a win but their Japan victory came at the cost of injuries to Alun Wyn Jones and Justin Tipur…
PA
26 Jun, 11:15
Alun Wyn Jones' Lions tour is over after just seven minutes at Murrayfield
The Lions have suffered a frightening start to their 2021 tour, losing skipper Alun Wyn Jones and Justin Tipuric to injury inside …
Liam Heagney
26 Jun, 9:40
The Lions suffered another Scottish-flavoured setback at Friday night's jersey presentation
Having lost two Scotland players to injury this week, the Lions also had to make do without a famed Scot who was set to present th…
Liam Heagney
26 Jun, 9:00
'I can't emphasise enough how important he will be to the Lions' - Nigel Owens
Retired referee Nigel Owens is backing England star Owen Farrell to shine on the British & Irish Lions series in South Africa, say…
Ian Cameron
26 Jun, 4:54
'It's a key part of who I am': All Access Special Ep3 with Maro Itoje
The latest RugbyPass All Access three-part series sees Jim Hamilton joined by Maro Itoje, the 2021 Lions pick and Vitality ambassa…
Josh Raisey
26 Jun, 4:06
20-year-old Wales new boy plays down Alun Wyn Jones comparisons
Wales new boy Ben Carter has played down comparisons with Alun Wyn Jones and revealed why a potential...
PA
26 Jun, 2:26
'That opportunity isn't going to be wasted': Time for players to step up after Lions tour uncertainty, says Alun Wyn Jones
Twenty-four hours later they will depart for South Africa, where the tour will take place in defiance of a rising number of corona…
PA
25 Jun, 16:45
Jamie Joseph's final message to Japan as they face the Lions
Jamie Joseph will give his Japan team the freedom to express themselves in the nation’s first fixture against the British and Ir…
PA
25 Jun, 13:12
How South African-born van der Merwe is coping with criticism of his Lions selection
It was only last autumn when South African-born Lions pick Duhan van der Merwe became eligible for Scotland under the residency ru…
Liam Heagney
25 Jun, 9:39
'That is a trait that not a lot of people have': All Access Special Ep2 with Maro Itoje
The latest RugbyPass All Access three-part series sees Jim Hamilton joined by Maro Itoje, the 2021 Lions pick and Vitality ambassa…
Josh Raisey
25 Jun, 3:58
'There was an orchestrated campaign in the NZ media to try to unsettle me'
Warren Gatland will complete the set of southern hemisphere destinations as he plots the downfall of South Africa
PA
25 Jun, 2:04
'We've had a lot of choir practice, a few questionable song choices'
Singing, beers, FIFA and WhatsApp group mischief were all mentioned as off-field activities for Conor Murray and his fellow Lions.…
Liam Heagney
24 Jun, 10:49
'At least it's not missing out on a tour': Lions issue Fagerson, Watson injury update
The Scots have borne the brunt of Lions training this week, injuries to Zander Fagerson and Hamish Watson ruling them out versus J…
Liam Heagney
24 Jun, 8:58
Fagerson becomes second Scotland forward to drop out of Lions XV versus Japan
A second Scotland forward has dropped out of Saturday's Lions XV, Zander Fagerson joining Hamish Watson on the Murrayfield sidelin…
Liam Heagney
24 Jun, 5:20
'This isn't something that is ridiculous': All Access Special Ep1 with Maro Itoje
The latest RugbyPass All Access three-part series sees Jim Hamilton joined by Maro Itoje, the 2021 Lions pick and Vitality ambassa…
Josh Raisey
24 Jun, 4:00
'Literally walking the corridor growling at people': How Exeter's 4 Lions are preparing
The only players who haven't yet linked up with the Lions are the four from Exeter who are involved in this Saturday's Premiership…
Liam Heagney
24 Jun, 3:02
'He will be a handful': Springboks assistant coach wary of threat posed by South African-born Duhan van der Merwe
The South African-born Scotland star will make his first appearance in the famous red jersey against Japan at Murrayfield Stadium …
Sam Smith
23 Jun, 21:10
Son of famous Wallaby ready for Japan debut against the British & Irish Lions after 'natural progression'
But when Jack Cornelsen likely makes his Test debut on Saturday, it will be far away from Australia - in Edinburgh, Scotland - and…
AAP
23 Jun, 20:04
'There's a whole new playbook': New master plan for Springboks won't stop Lions playing with flair says Liam Williams
Liam Williams initiated one of the British and Irish Lions’ greatest tries but the Wales star is now more focused on creating fr…
PA
23 Jun, 18:16
'They are going to physically bully us': Springbok lock Mostert's startling prediction for matchup with the Lions pack
Mostert is the only one of the Springboks' four locks at the World Cup in Japan two years ago who is fit, while Lood de Jager, Ebe…
AAP
23 Jun, 16:50
Training ground incident rules Hamish Watson out of the Lions opener versus Japan
Hamish Watson was set to be one of four Scots in the Lions XV versus Japan but that plan was scuppered by a training ground incide…
Liam Heagney
23 Jun, 8:57
The 2017 Lions lesson colouring Gatland's thinking regarding 2021 Test team selection
Warren Gatland has chosen some familiar combinations to face Japan but he insists it's no set indicator regarding Lions Test team …
Liam Heagney
23 Jun, 3:06
'That speaks volumes': How Lions vote told Gatland all he needed to know about Farrell
Owen Farrell has only just linked up with the Lions but his immense presence has already been felt, according to boss Warren Gatla…
Liam Heagney
22 Jun, 12:57
Gatland explains his 'no English' Lions XV and addresses Finn Russell injury scare
Warren Gatland has been speaking at a media briefing after his selection of the Lions team that will face Japan this Saturday in E…
Liam Heagney
22 Jun, 7:53
No England player in starting XV as Lions name team to play Japan on Saturday
Warren Gatland has named his first team of the 2021 Lions tour, a selection that will take on Japan at Murrayfield this Saturday. …
Liam Heagney
22 Jun, 5:05
McGeechan's take on which Lion should start at No.7 jersey against Japan
British & Irish Lions guru Sir Ian McGeechan has been running the rule over who should start against Japan next weekend.
Ian Cameron
21 Jun, 11:00
Gatland adds two more Lions to Jersey training camp
Two more players have inducted into Warren Gatland's British & Irish Lions training camp on Jersey, although there's still no sign…
Ian Cameron
20 Jun, 13:49
Manu Tuilagi one of seven players added to England training squad
Tuilagi is three games into his comeback from the Achilles injury sustained in September.
PA
20 Jun, 12:28
'Bow to me or crucify me': South African journo who tore apart Alun Wyn Jones doubles down on position
The South African journalist who took aim at Alun Wyn Jones and the Lions has doubled down on his position as he clarified that re…
Sam Smith
20 Jun, 1:33
'I don't think Hibbs had ever experienced a player speaking to him like Johnny did'
Even as stroppy flyhalves go, Ireland's Johnny Sexton's reputation for rattiness on the training pitch precedes him.
Ian Cameron
19 Jun, 7:08
'You've got one shot, you've got to take it': All Access Springboks Special
In this RugbyPass All Access special edition Spirit of Rugby episode, Jim Hamilton is joined by 2009 series winners John Smit and …
Josh Raisey
18 Jun, 5:44
'Trust us... we won't push you too far': Reassuring Lions message as injury scare dismissed
Assistant coach Robin McBryde has been speaking about the hectic Lions schedule on Jersey and has dismissed one early injury conce…
Liam Heagney
17 Jun, 8:36
'If they could have played that first Test I would have taken them': Springbok legend Matfield thinks the Lions are lacking in one key area
Legendary Springboks skipper Victor Matfield did it all throughout his illustrious career, a three time Super Rugby champion, Tri-…
Sam Smith
16 Jun, 18:31
'I'd be lying to say I was just happy to be here': Lions Test hopeful Price bares his claws
Ali Price is competing with Conor Murray and Gareth Davies for the Lions scrum-half duties in the series against the Springboks.
PA
16 Jun, 2:23
'He told me I'd never play for Wales': One coach's brutal put-down of a 16-year-old Rees-Zammit
Louis Rees-Zammit is set to tour with the Lions aged 20 but he hasn't forgotten what was brutally said to him as a 16-year-old in …
Liam Heagney
15 Jun, 13:08
'We're basically hotel-bound, just bussed to training': Life on Jersey with the Lions
The Lions are busy in Jersey this week and it's already proved to be a very different build-up to a tour than what used to happen …
PA
15 Jun, 8:32
What Warren Gatland inspiringly said when he first met up with his 2021 Lions players
It was last month in London when Warren Gatland first spoke to his 2021 Lions players and a new documentary has revealed what he s…
Liam Heagney
15 Jun, 8:06
'Where it stands at this moment...': Andy Farrell addresses rumours he will join Lions next month
Andy Farrell has been linked to a mid-tour Lions call-up next month and the Ireland boss has now reacted to those rumours.
Liam Heagney
15 Jun, 6:32
The zero-tolerance Lions: 'We need to call each other out if anyone isn't following the protocols'
The Lions have got down to work in Jersey with Josh Adams singing the praises of Stuart Hogg and Chris Harris talking about bubble…
PA
15 Jun, 3:37
In pictures: The 2021 Lions hold their first training session in Jersey
The build-up to the Lions tour has begun with 25 of the 37 chosen players training in Jersey along with week-long trainee Ronan Ke…
Liam Heagney
15 Jun, 3:13
Exeter players to appear before disciplinary panel as play-offs loom
Exeter Chiefs players Sam Skinner and Dave Ewers will appear before an online independent disciplinary panel tomorrow night follow…
Sacha Pisani
14 Jun, 10:50
Ireland forward to train with Lions as Gatland confirms 26-man island training squad
British & Irish Lions boss Warren Gatland has confirmed his 26-man training squad for Jersey.
Ian Cameron
13 Jun, 12:16
'Boks will love it': Finn Russell's magic pass for Racing 92 oddly has Springbok fans licking their lips
The high-risk, high-reward play of Scotland's number 10 presents a unique proposition for the British & Irish Lions, who have sele…
Sam Smith
13 Jun, 1:57
'Lord help us': Past history of Lions series' referees against the Springboks has been dug up
Much has been made over the announcement of the Springboks and Lions squads for the upcoming tour of South Africa, but little emph…
Sam Smith
12 Jun, 22:21
The incredible 1974 Lions treasure that Springboks boss Nienaber was given by his father
New Springboks boss Jacques Nienaber has revealed his passion for the upcoming Test series against the Lions was ignited many year…
Liam Heagney
11 Jun, 11:28
'Anyone booing the kneeling should do their own research before they boo something'
Anthony Watson was among the England players to perform the symbolic gesture before the recent Autumn Nations Cup and Six Nations …
PA
11 Jun, 9:50
'Maybe he was starting to get a bit too comfortable': Sinckler's invaluable Lions lesson
Eddie Jones has been speaking about the Lions call-up for Kyle Sinckler 31 days after he was left out of the original squad for So…
Liam Heagney
11 Jun, 4:19
This week's two match cancellations in South Africa will be a Lions tour concern
Just 22 days before the first Lions match in South Africa, their opponents have worryingly had their final Rainbow Cup match cance…
Liam Heagney
11 Jun, 3:08
'What you do today is how you're going to be remembered': Spirit of Rugby - Ep 5
In Spirit of Rugby episode 5, Jim Hamilton talks Lions with Matt Dawson, Jeremy Guscott, Rob Kearney, Simon Shaw, Tom Croft and Jo…
Josh Raisey
10 Jun, 8:52
'He's clearly going to be a key part of the South African game plan': What Rassie Erasmus' comments on cohesion mean for the Springboks
The recent announcement of the 46-man Springboks squad to feature against the British & Irish Lions in a three-test series this Ju…
Tom Raine
10 Jun, 0:00
'Five to 16 weeks... surgeon will know once he has opened it up and had a good look'
Wednesday is a big day for the Springboks as the injured Duane Vermeulen will be operated on following his ankle injury last Frida…
Liam Heagney
09 Jun, 8:30
'It really bulletproofed a lot of his key muscles': How Bristol saved Sinckler's season
Pat Lam has revealed the injured Kyle Sinckler wouldn't have been in a position to accept his Lions call-up but for muscle work at…
Liam Heagney
09 Jun, 7:53
'Semi-rolled': Exeter provide latest injury update on Lions pick Sam Simmonds
There has been concern surrounding the fitness of Lions pick Sam Simmonds since he limped out of the Exeter's Sunday win at Northa…
PA
09 Jun, 7:07
Northampton provide update on Lions pick Biggar following Sunday's injury
Lions tour pick Dan Biggar was taken off in the second half of last Sunday's defeat with Northampton after sustaining a chest inju…
PA
08 Jun, 12:07
Australian, Kiwi and French referees named for the Springboks versus Lions Test series
The latest step in the countdown to the hugely-awaited Springboks versus Lions games has been the appointment of the three Test ga…
Sam Smith
08 Jun, 8:58
Springboks duo injured in bizarre 'fire pit accident' weeks out from British and Irish Lions tour
Springboks pair Damian de Allende and RG Snyman sustained "substantial burns to their legs, hands and face" over this past weekend…
Online Editors
07 Jun, 20:23
Foot injury rules Porter out until pre-season
Ireland and Leinster tighthead Andrew Porter will be out of action until pre-season after picking up a foot injury in last Friday'…
Josh Raisey
07 Jun, 10:12
The Ireland coach McGeechan wants for the Lions and it's not Andy Farrell
British & Irish Lions guru Sir Ian McGeechan is petitioning for the inclusion of one of Ireland's current coaching setup, but it's…
Ian Cameron
05 Jun, 4:55
Alastair Campbell recalls his controversial Lions speech that left players 'seething'
"I had prepared it quite carefully, I'd thought it through. But I could sense in the room that there were some who were genuinely …
Josh Raisey
04 Jun, 7:50
Doubt cast over Andy Farrell's mooted Lions call
Doubt has been cast over Ireland head coach Andy Farrell joining up with the British and Irish Lions tour after dispensing the nat…
Ian Cameron
04 Jun, 5:51
Manu Tuilagi's message for Eddie Jones and Warren Gatland
The centre has recovered from an Achilles injury.
PA
04 Jun, 3:35
Six fly-in Lions heroes that made their mark despite missing the plane
The rugby world has been picking the bones of Warren Gatland’s 37-man British and Irish Lions squad for almost two months now.
Josh Raisey
03 Jun, 14:18
'He appeared a little bit aloof and arrogant to me': 'Spirit of Rugby' Ep 4
“To be a Lion, you’ve got to understand its uniqueness. You have to be adaptable and you have to share everything you’ve got…
Josh Raisey
03 Jun, 6:36
Austin Healey backs three England players for Lions call-up, but one sticks out
Former British and Irish Lions utility back Austin Healey has picked three England players he believes will likely play some role …
Ian Cameron
30 May, 13:04
The Springboks address issue of 'taking the knee' against the Lions
The Springboks have had their say on the Black Lives Matter campaign that has seen players in the UK taking the knee before matche…
Liam Heagney
30 May, 4:56
'He's got something up his sleeve': How the Springboks view Gatland and his 2021 Lions
A slugfest unfolded the last time Gatland faced off against Erasmus but the Springboks boss is expecting the Lions to do things di…
Liam Heagney
30 May, 4:30
Springboks radically change their tune: 'The nice thing is our old dogs, our big dogs got better offers overseas'
For years South Africa officials bemoaned the loss of Springboks to overseas clubs but Rassie Erasmus is now glad numerous star pl…
Liam Heagney
28 May, 10:42
What the Springboks really think of Gatland's 'hobbit-like' Lions picks and when they will finally announce their own tour squad
22 days after the Lions showed their hand, Springboks boss Rassie Erasmus and Jacques Nienaber have commented on Warren Gatland's …
Liam Heagney
28 May, 8:31
'It's probably the most physical Test match I've ever experienced': 'Spirit of Rugby - Ep 3
"There’s a sense of drama, there’s a sense of gladiatorial combat that you don’t get anywhere else in the world." - Watch Ep…
Josh Raisey
27 May, 7:18
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