Roberts and McBryde awaiting Lions call

Jamie Roberts said he is “waiting for the call” to join the British and Irish Lions squad and Wales coach Robin McBryde is braced for Warren Gatland to request cover.

Roberts missed out on a place in Gatland’s touring party to take on New Zealand, but the experienced centre has not given up hope of facing the world champions.

The 30-year-old captained his country in a 24-6 win over Tonga in Auckland on Friday and is eager to return to Eden Park to take on the All Blacks next Saturday.

“I’m still waiting for the call,” Roberts said with a smile. “If we lose some then we have to adapt accordingly.

“We have a squad of 32, so nine players missed out today and if we lose a few, others will get an opportunity, that’s what we’re about.

“We have to develop that strength in depth among the senior playing group in the Welsh squad, especially with 12 away with the Lions and a few injured players as well.

“We’re doing that well at the moment and if that happens in the week, we’ve the artillery to come in and perform for us.”

McBryde said: “We’ll have to wait and see,

“We’ll see how the boys rock up tomorrow and the Lions play tomorrow as well [versus the Maori All Blacks]. We will wait for that phone call.”