Former British & Irish Lions Coach: Why Lions Should Turn Down Scott Robertson for South Africa Tour 2021

A former British and Irish Lions coach says Scott Robertson should not be appointed as coach for the team's South African tour next year. Last week, the Crusaders coach revealed that he approached Warren Gatland to join him on the British and Irish Lions tour. Rugby enthusiasts can book Springboks Vs British And Irish Lions Tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

Robertson said he's interested in gaining international coaching experience after missing the All Blacks' main job to Ian Foster. Speaking at the Country Sports Breakfast in Gold AM last week, Robertson said he asked Gatland about joining him on the tour and offered his services.

Once I missed the All Blacks job, I went up to Gats and asked if I could go on that tour, he said. I thought, see if I can't get involved with the All Blacks, what is the most important, or actually greatest in itself, the Lions tour?

I said 'look, I'd love to help you if I can. In a Daily Telegraph column, former Lions and Scotland coach Sir Ian McGeechan praised Robertson but didn't think the Lions were a place for him.

“Robertson is probably one of the four or five best coaches in world rugby at the moment. And your interest should serve as a wake-up call for one or two people who are questioning the future of Lions as an entity,” wrote McGeechan.

But I don't think Gats should give him a role. As flattering as his interest is, and no matter how good a coach he is, I certainly don't think it's the right decision. Robertson would bring something different, without a doubt. It would bring knowledge of Super Rugby and South African rugby.

“But he doesn't know Northern Hemisphere rugby intimately. He does not know the players who will participate in intimately. Next year's tour to South Africa will be one of the shortest and most intense of all time. There will be such a rapid change between the Premiership final and the first game - just one week. It is absolutely vital that Lions begin to function. And for that, they will need coaches that Gats knows and trusts, and who know the players.”

Scott Robertson

Robertson, who led the Crusaders to their fourth straight Super Rugby title this year, said his request was taken to Lions management. I'm waiting. We'll see what happens, he said. "Obviously there's a lot to work on with COVID and the British and Irish Lions tour. But we've had a couple of good conversations since then and he has to go through his administration line to make a decision.

“Something that really drives and motivates me is probably learning and understanding. Obviously, Gats has been very successful internationally as a coach, so he is a person to learn from and also allows me not to have to go abroad to train and get that international experience.”

The 45-year-old, who many believed deserved the All Blacks coach job over Foster, said he is happy at the Crusaders but is open to training abroad in the future. From a personal note, I have a young family. I would love to stay with the Crusaders for as long as I can, but I am also quite cautious about the timing of roles in the international market and what happens in Europe.

“One of the reasons I played in France is so I can learn French to train there one day. If that's the right thing and the right time, then great. I have a few options.”

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Smit: I’ve never experienced nerves like that

 Former Springbok captain John Smit has reflected on the 2009 British & Irish Lions tour to South Africa and revealed how the series brought about unique pressure.

Smit was in conversation with British & Irish Lions chairman Jason Leonard in a webinar hosted by the SA Rugby Legends Association as part of the buildup to next year’s Lions tour of South Africa. Rugby fans can book British lions 2021 tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

“The World Cup comes around every four years and if you’re lucky, you might play in one, maybe two, some three, four, five, but some of the greatest Springboks that have ever lived never got an opportunity to play against the Lions,” said Smit.

‘That responsibility and hype added to what I found extreme pressure.’

Although Smit had led the Springboks to the 2007 World Cup, he admitted there was plenty riding on the outcome of the Lions series.

“We were in a funny situation in 2009 because we were a World Cup-winning team that was two years older and a lot of the guys had scattered around a bit and signed overseas contracts.

“We’d all come together under Peter de Villiers and the motivation to stay together was because we had an opportunity to fix the 1997 result.

“I remember being asked at a press conference the week before the first Test in Durban, “How does this the hype feel compared to the World Cup final?” I played it down from an answer point of view, but in reality, I don’t think I’d ever been that nervous for a Test.

“A, because I was playing tighthead and we were told we’re going to be put under pressure from a scrum point of view and, B, if we didn’t come through with the goods, it would be 24 years of agony.

‘It’s quite a heavy feeling. I’ve never experienced nerves like that.’

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Saders confident of retaining Razor’s services

 

Crusaders chief executive Colin Mansbridge says Scott Robertson will still be the franchise’s head of coach next year even if he takes a role with the British & Irish Lions.

Robertson was appointed Crusaders head coach in 2017 and has led his team to championships in every season since taking control. But last week, the 45-year-old revealed he has reached out to Warren Gatland to express interest in forming part of the British & Irish Lions coaching group next year. Rugby fans can book British lions 2021 tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

Robertson, who missed out on the All Blacks coaching job, told a New Zealand radio show that he has turned his attention to the possibility of taking up a role with the Lions.

But while nothing is concrete yet, Mansbridge says the Crusaders board has discussed the possibility of Robertson linking up with the Lions and discussed ways to work around it.

“Without getting into detail about what it actually looked like, there was confidence that we would be able to manage it in terms of commitment to the Crusaders’ campaign, as well as doing this Lions link, Mansbridge said.”

“He is not going to lose focus on the campaign. There is no way he doesn’t want to win another championship. If there is anything that keeps him up at night, it’s that.”

According to Mansbridge, Robertson would be able to focus solely on the Crusaders’ season before joining the Lions set-up, because it is expected that Vodacom Super Rugby will conclude about a month before the Lions tour of South Africa in July.

“He is not going to abandon the campaign at the back end – it would be how does he manage himself? And he’s exceptional at doing that. We are confident that between us we can solve any issue as it arises, Mansbridge said.

“We would like to see it as an opportunity, rather than see the problems or barriers to it, is our mindset.

“His coach’s paint around this place is going to be thicker than most. It’s as good as, if not better, than a Robbie Deans or Wayne Smith. It’s that sort of impact he’s going to have on this place. I’m not saying Razor holds all the cards, but there is no need to play hardball or be tough or anything like that.”

‘When you show someone that you want them in your whanau and you love them and you love them being there, we just keep reinforcing those, and we will let the documentation and the contracting take care of itself with time.’

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SA Rugby fans get the bargain of the century for Lions tour

CAPE TOWN - South African rugby enthusiasts have scored the bargain of the century in ticket prices for the British and Irish Lions' eight-game tour to SA in 2021, compared to other major sporting events globally.

And it is the hope of the executive director of the South African Rugby Union, Jurie Roux, that a "green army" will fight the "sea of ​​red" of roving Lions supporters. Rugby fans can book Vodacom Bulls Vs British And Irish Lions Tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

World Cup-winning Springbok Pieter-Stef du Toit described the Lions' visit next year as bigger than the World Cup because it is rare for a player to get a second chance in his career to be in front of tourists.

Springboks World Cup-winning coach and National Rugby Director Rassie Erasmus said playing for the Lions was one of the best rugby experiences and pointed to the magnitude of the three-round series, given that players from three of The four semi-finalists of the 2019 World Cup would occupy a central place on three successive Saturdays.

"It's going to be huge, Erasmus said, moments after his Springboks beat England to win the World Cup in Japan. We are already counting the days."

South African

Huge may even be an understatement because the South African Lions will be the country's biggest sporting event since the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup. South Africa's economy will receive a boost, temporary and permanent jobs will be created and sports fans will experience the traditions of an eight-match rugby tour in a professional era dominated by one-off test matches.

South African fans have also taken the lead when it comes to accessibility and affordability. The cheapest tickets are Category D tickets and these have been made exclusively for residents of South Africa.

The high-end match trial ticket is priced at R3000, but these tickets are invariably a corporate prize and are bought quickly. The world champions Springboks play against the best of England, Wales, Ireland, and Scotland, and the series represents a repeat in many ways of the 2019 Springboks World Cup semi-final against Wales and the final victory against England. A premium ticket for the Springboks play-off matches in Japan costs R16, 000.

There will never be a contract that any sports ticket is fair because the demand, on the most important sports occasions, always exceeds the supply. However, in the context of the British and Irish Lions' visit to South Africa in July 2021, a fairer system has never been introduced to accommodate South African supporters.

The radical four-tier ticketing system says to affordability, in the context of the event. The use of the word 'affordability' should not be confused with insensitivity to the current economic crisis in South Africa caused by Covid-19 but should be understood to represent how little it could cost to watch the Lions play in South Africa in 2021.

Springboks and Lions

The Springboks and Lions' three test games could sell out three more times, when fans of the traveling Lions are added to the equation. The challenge for the organizers was how to make the Lions accessible to all of South Africa outside of test matches and affordable in the context of the four-tier test ticket price.

Lions are unique in that they tour SA only once every 12 years. Many Springboks have won World Cup medals and played in various World Cups, but never got to play against the Lions. For those regional and provincial players outside of the Springboks squad, playing the Lions is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Roux, confirming ticket prices earlier in the week, highlighted that despite the unique business collaboration between SA Rugby and the Lions, South Africa was largely the host nation, and the ticketing structure was geared toward ensuring this home advantage among the fans.

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British irish lions tour tickets

 The 2021 British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa is an international rugby union tour which will take place in South Africa in 2021. The British and Irish Lions will play a three-match test series against South Africa. Unlike previous series, where the Lions played seven additional games against local teams, in 2021 there will only be five additional games, making a total of eight.

in May 2019, Warren Gatland agreed to take charge of the team for the third successive time, with both parties agreeing to the deal. Gatland was officially unveiled as the 2021 coach on 12 June 2019.

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Bowe expects incredible Lions series

 

Former Ireland and British & Irish Lions wing Tommy Bowe have warned the visitors to expect a tough series against the Springboks during their 2021 tour of South Africa.

Bowe was a member of the Lions squad that last toured South Africa in 2009 when the tourists suffered a 2-1 series defeat by the Springboks. Rugby fans can book British lions 2021 tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

He started all three Tests against the Boks, but Bowe most vividly remembers the thrilling second Test, when the hosts claimed a 28-25 victory at Loftus Versfeld thanks to Morne Steyn’s long-range penalty winner.

Speaking to the Lions website, Bowe recalled his feelings on that day and the incredible atmosphere created by the supporters.

‘It’s going to be an incredible series and it will be incredibly difficult for the Lions,’ Bowe told the Lions website.

‘My memories of that 2009 Tour are just that second Test – I will never forget the bus going to the stadium in Pretoria. I’ve never seen passion from a crowd like I saw that day going into the stadium in Pretoria – people were shaking the bus and shouting all sorts!

‘The reverberation of the crowd in the changing room of the stadium was just outrageous – you could just feel the supporter’s right outside.’

Bowe added that the World Cup-winning Springbok side with the likes of Cheslin Kolbe and Pieter-Steph du Toit will put the Lions through a tough series next year.

‘The Lions are going to be up against the world champions, and South Africa showed that they’re ruthless, physical and a match for anyone. The way they played against England in the World Cup Final, they just showed how difficult they are to play against.

‘I think Pieter-Steph du Toit is just an absolute machine, and of course, they’ve also got Cheslin Kolbe, who’s at the opposite end of the spectrum size-wise but is just so gifted. He’s somebody who, the minute he gets the ball in his hands, can get the whole crowd on their feet to see what he can do. They have no shortage of talent in their team, so it’s going to be an incredible series.’

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Scott Robertson wants to take part in Warren Gatland's British and Irish Lions Tour

Scott Robertson has revealed that he approached Warren Gatland to join him on the British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa next year. Rugby enthusiasts can book DHL Stormers Vs British And Irish Lions Tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

The Crusaders coach says he's interested in gaining international coaching experience after missing the All Blacks' main job to Ian Foster. Speaking at the Country Sports Breakfast in Gold AM, Robertson said he asked Gatland about joining him on the tour and offered his services.

Once I missed the All Blacks job, I went up to Gats and asked if I could go on that tour, he said. I thought, see if I can't get involved with the All Blacks, what is the most important, or greatest in itself, the Lions tour?

Scott Robertson

I said 'look, I'd love to help you if I can. Robertson, who led the Crusaders to their fourth straight Super Rugby title this year, said his request was taken to Lions management.

“I'm waiting. We'll see what happens, he said. There's a lot to work on with COVID and the British and Irish Lions tour. But we've had a couple of good conversations since then and he has to go through his management line to make a decision.”

“Something that drives and motivates me is probably learning and understanding. Gats has been very successful internationally as a coach so he is a person to learn from and also allows me not to have to go abroad to train and get that international experience.”

The 45-year-old, who many believed deserved the All Blacks coaching job over Foster, said he is happy at the Crusaders but is open to training abroad in the future. From a personal note, I have a young family. I would love to stay with the Crusaders for as long as I can, but I am also quite cautious about the timing of roles in the international market and what happens in Europe.

“One of the reasons I played in France is so I can learn French to train there one day. If that's the right thing and the right time, then great. I have a few options.”

Jurie Roux

Meanwhile, South African rugby Chief Jurie Roux has raised questions about next year's Lions tour, saying it could be postponed if fans are unable to travel due to the global pandemic. Roux said the series scheduled for July 2021 will not be financially viable if fans are unable to attend the games due to Covid-19 restrictions.

"We are looking at some different contingencies around what happens if COVID continues the way it currently does," Roux told SA Rugby Mag.

The first prize is that that doesn't happen. The second prize is that there are some restrictions and we can manage those restrictions.

"To be fair, the absence of viewers and the inability for people to travel commercially would not make this feasible and there would be a serious reconsideration of how we continue in terms of the tour."

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bLion's tour contingencies under consideration

 South Africa Rugby CEO Jurie Roux says there will be a serious reconsideration of next year’s British & Irish Lions tour if the current Covid-19 pandemic prevents fans from traveling. DYLAN JACK reports. Rugby fans can book British lions 2021 tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

Roux held a media briefing on Tuesday to update the public on the ticketing system and pricing.

Current coronavirus lockdown restrictions would prevent fans from traveling to South Africa, let alone attending matches during the tour.

Roux explained that SA Rugby and tour organizers had been working on a best-case scenario, but that the tour would have to be reconsidered if fans are not able to travel, which would have a significant commercial impact.

“We are looking at several different contingencies around what happens if COVID continues in the way that it currently does. The first prize is that that doesn’t happen. The second prize is that there are some restrictions and we can manage those restrictions.

“To be fair, no spectators and an inability for people to travel would commercially not make this viable and there would be a serious reconsideration on how we then continue in terms of the tour.

“In the buildup to this, in the last couple of months, there was some consideration given to moving it out. We decided on the best-case information that we currently have, is that in all likelihood by June and July next year, travel would have returned to what is deemed normal and that we will be able to continue.’

On Tuesday, SA Rugby announced that tickets from as little as R100 for next year’s Lions tour will be available from 2 September.

However, should the Lions tour be called off, Roux said that there are systems in place to ensure that fans from the UK and South Africa get their money back.

“We are assessing that on a weekly and monthly basis. From a ticketing point of view, there is legislation in place in the UK in terms of repayment if an event like the Lions tour doesn’t happen. We have built-in those securities in terms of the South African ticket sales as well. From a fan point of view, they are covered when it comes to that element.

“We are hoping that does not happen, but we will assess that as we move along.’

 

As far as postponing the Lions tour goes, Roux explained that it would be highly unlikely as it would cause a shake-up of the global calendar and come into conflict with Premiership and PRO14 dates.

“In terms of moving the dates of the tour to a later stage next year given the decisions around the global calendar would be unlikely,’ Roux said. ‘It would probably mess with PRL, PRO14, and a few other dates, which would make it highly unlikely.

“Unless everybody gets together like they have done for the global calendar and makes a collective decision to move that. At the moment, I would deem it unlikely. I cannot speak on behalf of the other member unions.’

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BOWE: LIONS FACE A DIFFICULT TEST NEXT SUMMER

The two-time Lions tourist has vivid memories of his playing days against the Springboks, beginning in all three Trials of the 2009 Tour when Sir Ian McGeechan's men succumbed to a 2-1 series loss.

The former Ireland winger was also central to the Lions' series win in Australia in 2013, but it's that visit to South Africa that remains in the memory, as tourists lost a thrilling second Test 28-25 in the Loftus heat. Versfeld Stadium. Rugby enthusiasts can book Springboks Vs British And Irish Lions Tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

Bowe will always remember that day in Pretoria and says that while the South African population is among the most welcoming hosts in world rugby, Warren Gatland's team will need all his mental determination to deal with the pressures of the game day."It's going to be an incredible series and it will be incredibly difficult for the Lions," the 36-year-old said.

The South African crowd is so passionate about their team, but also very welcoming. I think they appreciate the Lions and their support coming into the country. There is something special about the Lions with the union of the four countries, with the color and emotion of the Lions fans combined with the passion and pride, particularly towards the Lions, of the Springbok fans.

British and Irish Lions

I think it's the perfect combination and it's an incredible and very special Tour and place to play; every time the Lions tour of South Africa has always been amazing, next year will be no different.

My memories of that 2009 Tour are only that second test; I will never forget the bus to the Pretoria stadium. I have never seen the passion of a crowd like the one I saw that day entering the stadium in Pretoria - people were waving the bus and yelling about everything!

"The reverberation from the crowd in the stadium locker room was just outrageous, you could feel the crowd right outside."A last-gasp penalty from Morné Steyn in that iconic second Test wiped out the Lions' hopes of leveling the series that year, before McGeechan's men rallied to triumph 28-9 in Johannesburg in a series loss. 2-1.

But it was in Australia four years later that Bowe became a Lions immortal, missing the first trial through injury but recovering in time for the second and third as the Lions won 41-16 in Sydney to end their wait. Age 16 for a Tour win.

Bowe is very familiar with what makes Tour opponents effective, having encountered the likes of John Smit, Bryan Habana, Michael Hooper and Adam Ashley-Cooper on those visits to South Africa and Australia.

Springbok

The former running back is looking forward to next summer's series and has chosen two players from Springbok, who played when South Africa beat England 32-12 in the World Cup final, with the ability to thwart the Lions' advances."The Lions are going to face the world champions and South Africa showed that they are ruthless, physical and a match for anyone," he added.

The way they played England in the World Cup final, it just showed how difficult it is to play England. I think Pieter-Steph du Toit is just an absolute machine and of course, they also have Cheslin Kolbe, who is on the opposite end of the spectrum when it comes to size but is so talented. He is someone who, the moment he has the ball in his hands, he can get the whole crowd to stand up to see what he can do.

"They don't lack talent on their team, so it's going to be an incredible series."

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Crusaders coach Scott Robertson keen to join British & Irish Lions staff

 

Crusaders coach Scott Robertson said he has asked about joining the coaching staff of fellow New Zealander Warren Gatland when he leads the British & Irish Lions tour of South Africa next year. Rugby fans can book British lions 2021 tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

Robertson, who missed out on the All Blacks coaching job last year, said a role on the Lions tour would help give him some international experience.

"I thought, look if I can't be involved with the All Blacks, what's the biggest thing - or bigger in its self - the Lions tour - to get involved," Robertson told New Zealand radio station Gold AM on Friday.

"Obviously Gats (Gatland) has been hugely successful at the international level as a coach, so he's a person to learn off and also allows me to not have to go offshore to coach and get that international experience."

Gatland is taking a year off from coaching the Chiefs to coach the Lions.

Robertson guided the Crusaders to the domestic Super Rugby Aotearoa title earlier this month to add to their three successive Super Rugby titles since he took over in 2017.

The All Blacks appointed Ian Foster, an assistant coach for the past eight years, to succeed Steve Hansen.

Robertson said he had not heard anything back from Lions management yet.

The Lions play three Tests, two in Johannesburg and one in Cape Town, against the world champion Springboks on an eight-match tour from July 3-Aug. 7 next year.

However, SA Rugby chief executive Jurie Roux this week admitted the tour might not go ahead next year if travel restrictions remained in place across the world.

"Travelling for international events will likely still be under more pressure than pre-COVID [in July 2021]," Roux said.

"No spectators and people not being able to travel would not make this commercially viable, and then we would discuss how we continue with the tour.

"There has been some talk of moving it out [to a new date], but our travel advice is that by June/July we should be at what is deemed to be normal international travel.

"But we are monitoring it every month."

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Does the British and Irish Lions tour in South Africa next year give us bang for our buck?

SA Rugby CEO Jurie Roux used the lottery ticket analogy on Tuesday to talk about the importance of registering online for the right to see the British and Irish Lions here next year. Rugby fans can book South Africa Invitational Vs British And Irish Lions Tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

In an even broader context, he could have said that to be a big winner you need a ticket and that is perhaps the way South Africans should approach the long-awaited tour. SA Rugby on Tuesday urged local fans to register and go on the ballot at www.lionstour2021.co.za “between” September 2-16 to avoid disappointment.Despite what some may argue is exorbitant prices, there will be a ticket stampede, especially in the UK and Ireland once travel gets easier and we have learned to better deal with the vagaries of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Of course, in the coming months, the pandemic will cast a long and ominous shadow over the tour, but the organizers have crossed their hygienic fingers.

The cheapest trial ticket is a Category D offer for R500 and the price increases considerably as you go down to the best seats in the house. Category C tickets cost R1 250, Category B will sell for R2 000, while the beautiful seats will cost you R3 000. These prices compare favorably with those set for the 2009 Lions tour.

For matches outside of Trials, prices vary from venue to venue, but the lowest-priced ticket for a Lions match next year will be for matches in Port Elizabeth and Nelspruit, which will cost R100. What South Africans must ask themselves is whether the entertainment on offer is commensurate with the face value of the ticket amid a contracting economy and an underperforming Rand.British and Irish Lions

They will be less bothered by the fact that the price is very competitive compared to other international sporting events of a similar type. A trial ticket for the 2017 B&I Lions series in New Zealand would have cost you around R1 800 for the cheapest seat. A category A ticket to last year's Rugby World Cup final cost around R16, 800.

What South Africans will also want to know is whether they will get the most out of their investment. In short, the series will pit the Rugby World Cup champions against a team comprising the best of Great Britain and Ireland that have not lost a series since their last tour here in 2009.

That in itself has great promise. The fact that Lions tours are on the hazard list should also influence the deliberations of the locals. They no longer have the providence that they once had on the game schedule.As revered as those who participate in them, they are like the fabulously festive guy who walks by with a bulky duffel bag and then disappears like a leap year. The much-debated world rugby calendar is being shaped and it remains to be seen what footprint the Lions' tours will have.

For the past several decades, almost all the energy and excitement on Lions tours have gone into test matches. Commercially, midweek games, we are told, have become a tough sell for broadcasters. In an increasingly congested calendar, it's no wonder Lions tours have become more of a city break than a safari.

South Africa

In 1980, Bill Beaumont's Lions played 18 games, on their next visit to South Africa they played 13, while on their last visit in 2009 they were sold out 10 times. Next year's tour includes just eight matches. You can see where this is headed.The lions tours may not be what they used to be, but when you look at them you are left with the feeling that you are getting a piece of history. The fact is, Lions tours are legendary. We are tied to the sport's past like no other steam or jet-set odyssey team.

They evoke images of camaraderie and combat, brotherhood and blood, mischief and threats, jubilation, and daydreaming. Lions tours take us back to a time when the clock seemed to stop and only the moment mattered.

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British Irish Lions tour to SA may not take place next year

British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa may not take place next year if supporters are unable to attend due to COVID-19 restrictions, and host union chief executive Jurie Roux admitted that he would not. Having viewers would not be commercially viable. Rugby fans can book South Africa A Vs British And Irish Lions Tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

Roux also said that postponing the tour to next fall was "highly unlikely" due to the already messy nature of the global calendar, raising the possibility of a delay to 2022 at the earliest, or even canceling it altogether. If the current travel restrictions imposed on South Africa were in effect next summer, Lions supporters would not be able to travel.Roux is optimistic that the situation will have improved by next July, but issued a stern warning if it does not. Lions tours have traditionally been very lucrative for the host country: the 2017 tour secured a profit of around £ 20 million for New Zealand rugby, while the Lions made £ 7 million.

A new business model, with revenue split more evenly, was introduced for next year's tour and last month Vodafone was featured as the main sponsor of the Lions in a deal worth more than 6 million. With mechanisms in place for fans who bought tickets for a refund, if the tour doesn't go on next year it could be hugely damaging to the finances of both South Africa and the home nations.

Jurie Roux   

"The absence of spectators and the inability for people to travel would not make this commercially viable and there would be a serious reconsideration of how we will continue in terms of the tour, Roux said, announcing South Africa's ticket pricing strategy for the tour on Tuesday. We are evaluating it weekly and monthly."Discussions took place earlier this summer about the possibility of moving the tour to October to align it with a new global calendar, but it was ultimately decided that it would remain on its regular daylight saving time, and the Lions confirmed the original dates of the tour.

Eight-game tour last month. However, with French and English clubs turning down proposals to permanently move the testing window from summer to fall, Roux does not anticipate delaying next year's tour to October and November.

"It would be unlikely to move the tour dates to a later stage next year, given the decisions around the world calendar, he added. It would probably get complicated with PRL, Pro14, and some other dates, which would make it very unlikely."The Lions also remain optimistic the tour goes ahead as planned with an estimated 20,000 supporters making the trip. “As recently announced, we are fully intending for the tour to go ahead as scheduled, but, as you would expect, SA Rugby, in conjunction with the Lions, are contingency planning for all eventualities,” said a Lions spokesperson.

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SINCE THE TOUR: JOHNNY SEXTON

 

The Ireland fly-half was a key figure in 2013, as Warren Gatland’s side marched to a famous 2-1 series win in Australia, before again playing in all three Tests against New Zealand in 2017.

His partnership with fellow fly-half Owen Farrell helped turn the 2017 Tour around after the All Blacks surged to victory in the first Test, while he has gone from strength to strength since. Rugby fans can book British lions 2021 tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

Long acknowledged as one of the finest fly-halves in the game, Sexton is still going strong at 35 and even took over the Ireland captaincy for the 2020 Six Nations.

With the 2021 Tour to South Africa on the horizon, the Leinsterman is one of the players being tipped for a third Tour when they take on the reigning world champions.

And in the latest part of our new series looking at what the 2017 tourists have been up to since, we take at look how Sexton has continued to lead by example for club and country.

POST-TOUR REFLECTIONS

Sexton opened his account in the first game where he kicked the first points of the Lions Tour in the 13-7 success against the New Zealand Barbarians.

The Leinsterman was a replacement versus the Blues and Crusaders before starting the 32-10 victory over the Maori All Blacks a week before the First Test, where he came on as a replacement.

He was selected to start a week later as the Lions levelled the series with a 24-21 success in Wellington.

The 32-year-old was instrumental in the classic loop move which saw Anthony Watson break down the right and eventually led to Taulupe Faletau’s vital try in that Test.

And the Irish fly-half started against the All Blacks once again in the third Test as the match, and a dramatic series, was drawn.

Sexton was part of a familiar partnership at half-back with compatriot Conor Murray but also linked well with England’s Owen Farrell in the 10-12 axis during the second and third Tests.

In total he played 383 minutes on Tour making 44 tackles and gaining 111 metres with ball in hand.

THE GRAND SLAM 

Just months after the Lions’ Tour, Sexton reached one of his career highlights – a Six Nations Grand Slam with Ireland.

The fly-half got the ball rolling with a dramatic last-gasp drop goal against France in Round 1, after a 43-phase move from inside their own half.

Home wins against Italy, Scotland and Wales secured Ireland the title before they even faced England in Round 5 – but they went and beat their old rivals for good measure to win just the third Grand Slam in their history.

Ireland’s year got better after that, with a Test series win in Australia – where Sexton again starred – followed by four consecutive wins in the autumn, including a first ever home victory against New Zealand.

WORLD PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Ireland’s amazing year earned them some end-of-season dividends at the glitzy World Rugby awards.

Joe Schmidt won Coach of the Year, Ireland won Team of the Year and Sexton himself won the World Player of the Year award.

“It’s been an incredible year for Irish rugby, to win everything we could, really. It’s been very special, and a few of us have ended up here tonight,” he said.

Ireland were beaten by England in the opening game of the 2019 Six Nations and were defeated by Wales in the last, while their World Cup ended in quarter-final heartbreak at the hands of New Zealand.

However, they could add another Six Nations medal soon, with Sexton the captain, with just two games to go.

Their fate is in their own hands, with two bonus-point wins against Italy and France enough to secure the trophy.

If Ireland are to do it, they’ll need Sexton at his best.

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Lions Stars Ready to Restart Rugby

After a five-month absence, rugby makes its long-awaited return to the Northern Hemisphere, kicking off with a bang in the English Premiership this weekend, with several British and Irish Lions strutting. Rugby fans can book South Africa A Vs British And Irish Lions Tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

With the 2021 Tour to South Africa now less than a year away, players from the British Isles will be eager to prove their worth as they seek a spot on Warren Gatland's team. The club's impressive performances are vital and the Gatland Lions head coach will keep an eye out for the Premiership, which is poised for an exciting conclusion to the campaign.England takes center stage

The Guinness PRO14 won't be back until next week, so England's top flight can steal the spotlight for a week as it begins its descent to an exciting conclusion.

The Exeter Chiefs rank at the top of the list, five points ahead of Sale, and face the Leicester Tigers on Saturday with an XV containing two-time tourist and Scotland captain Stuart Hogg on its bottom line. Leicester has its fair share of Lions too, with scrum-half Ben Youngs, hooker Tom Youngs and mainstay Dan Cole set to appear.

Manu's debut

But all eyes will be first on Sale, who will debut the 2013 Leon Manu Tuilagi against Harlequins on Friday night.The power forward joined from Leicester during blocking and fits into an electric back division that also features prolific England winger Chris Ashton, while South African duo Faf de Klerk and Lood de Jager are definitely worth keeping an eye on with the long-awaited next year's series in mind.

There are three more games scheduled for Saturday afternoon and the Lions everywhere, especially in the Saracens group, with Mako Vunipola, Jamie George and Maro Itoje set to face third-placed Bristol Bears.

Vunipola could scrum against his England teammate and colleague Leon Kyle Sinckler in 2017, who is expected to make his Bristol debut from the bench, while, 22 kilometers down the road, and Irish winger Sean O'Brien will be the captain of the London Irish in Bath.Anthony Watson, Jonathan Joseph and Taulupe Faletau will star for Bath, who are just five points away from a semi-final. On Sunday, the team sitting in that last spot, Northampton Saints, will restart their campaign against the Wasps, with Courtney Lawes and Dan Biggar, both 2017 tourists, part of their squad. It is expected to be an exciting weekend and a great way to kick off 12 months of rugby.

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Shaun Edwards wants to focus on France over British and Irish Lions

Former Wales defence coach Shaun Edwards insisted that he would be focussing on France next year over a possible chance of being in the coaching panel of British and Irish Lions.

The Lions are set to tour South Africa in 2021 for a three-game Test series in July and August as head coach Warren Gatland is finalising his backroom staff. Rugby fans can book British lions 2021 tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

Edwards already has the experience of being with the Lions as defence coach when they last toured South Africa in 2009 under head coach Sir Ian McGeechan but when Gatland took in charge he opted for Andy Farrell as defence coach in the 2013 and 2017 tours of Australia and New Zealand respectively.

He also has worked with Gatland with Wales where he was the defensive coach since 2008 and decided to part away post the 2019 World Cup following which he was handed a similar role with France.

"The French Federation has shown a lot of belief in me," said Edwards.

“They gave me a four-and-a-half-year deal. When I signed the contract, I pretty much knew that the Lions would be off the radar.

"I know from personal experience that the Lions has the highest profile of all.

“Not only do you have the support of three million people in Wales, but you also have the whole backing of England, Ireland Scotland as well.

"Being in France makes it different. They probably don't understand how prestigious it is to be selected for the Lions, but that's beside the point. I'm not expecting a phone call.”

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British and Irish lions: we just couldn't say no - Stick

Springbok's assistant coach, Mzwandile Stick, has opened up to the experience of taking on the British and Irish Lions on tour. Stick first met the famous side on the road when they last visited South Africa in 2009. Rugby enthusiasts can book Springboks Vs British And Irish Lions Tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

BRITISH AND IRISH LIONS TOURS: RUGBY'S MOST RARE CHALLENGE

The British and Irish Lions tours only take place once every twelve years for the Springboks with the team now locked into a four-year cycle in which they visit traditional southern rivals in South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.

Stick was drafted into the Southern Kings team that took on the tourists at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium just after the completion of the 2010 Soccer World Cup venue construction.

"At the time, I was still playing for the Blitzboks, but I got a call from Mr. Solomons and he asked me to play that game," said Stick, who hails from Port Elizabeth.

Me and Mpho Mbiyozo, who was with me on the Springbok Sevens team, we just couldn't say no to this opportunity. There was one thing that made it very special for me: playing in front of our fans in Port Elizabeth. It's the place that made me who I am, and it's very close to my heart.

We had people like De Wet Barry, a great Springbok, Solly Tyibilika and Francois Hougaard, a lot of great players, and for me, when I was young, it was very special to rub shoulders with these guys.

"Then looking at the venue, it was going to be the first sports match at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium that was built for the 2010 Soccer World Cup. We were very excited to be a part of that story."

Stick came off the bench to score in a game that he claimed provided everyone involved with incredible memories.

"It was 11 years ago, but I remember everything about that game," Stick recalled.

“A lot of players don't get a chance to play the Lions, but for me, even after retiring, he always made me smile. We were facing the best players in Europe. Ronan O'Gara scored 10 points, Ugo Monye scored his only try and there were many other big names as well. Sharing the field with all those players created memories that will last a lifetime, and I am truly grateful for that opportunity.”

THREE TIMES HARDER THAN 32-12 VS ENGLAND

Stick expects the Lions to pose a huge challenge for the Springboks next year. The assistant coach feels the Lions will be eager to take down the world champions after the Boks beat Wales and England on their way to winning the cup.

"The Rugby World Cup final against England was very tough and we had to do our best. I think facing the Lions will be three times as difficult," he said.

Unlike a World Cup, where the weeks are easier, there will be no opportunities to take it easy when preparing for the Lions; every training session, every gym session will have to count. We are the reigning RWC champions, we beat England in the final and Wales in the semi-final so they are going to cost us a lot. It will be like revenge.

"We certainly don't expect anything light. The Northern Hemisphere teams are very strong right now, all of those teams are very tough and we will make sure we are ready for that challenge."

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Williams: Lions jersey makes you feel 12 foot tall

Former Wales wing Shane Williams has opened up on his pride of wearing a British & Irish Lions jersey during their tour of New Zealand in 2005.

Fresh from helping Wales win a Grand Slam Six Nations title in 2005, Williams was named in the Lions squad for their New Zealand tour. Rugby fans can book British Irish lions tickets on our website on exclusively discounted prices.

In an interview with the Lions website, the short wing recalled feeling like a giant when he was able to pull on the famous red shirt in a historic warm-up match against Argentina in Cardiff.

‘To put the Lions jersey on for the first time, I remember putting it on and feeling 12 feet tall,’ Williams told the Lions website. ‘To play for Wales was my dream as a kid and I knew all about the history of the Lions.

‘But I never thought for one minute that I would play for Wales, let alone the Lions. So, when the chance comes along you’re pinching yourself, you are.

‘When I put that jersey on for the Argentina game, I was so proud. It didn’t matter who we were playing, where we were playing, I was so proud.

‘The fact that we were playing at the Millennium Stadium was huge because I knew we would have a lot of Welsh fans there. It was at my home stadium and I just couldn’t wait to go. It was a huge honor and it was a capped game as well, so that’s a Lions international Test cap. I’m very proud of that moment and to have my family there watching, it was huge.’

During the tour, Williams would make a small bit of history by equalling a single-game Lions record when he scored five tries in a midweek match against Manawatu.

‘Every time I put the Lions jersey on, whether it be against the All Blacks, South Africa, Manawatu, Otaga, whatever, I was beaming that I’d made it and had that opportunity,’ Williams said.

‘I was put in that Lions squad to score tries, that’s my job. I suppose I’m the Messi or Shearer of rugby. When it comes to football they are there to score goals, I’m there to score tries. Every time there was a game for the Lions I would put my hand up, I wanted to play. I’d play every single game if the coaches would let me.’

However, the rest of the tour would not go to plan for the Lions as they were handed a 3-0 series defeat by an All Blacks side inspired by the likes of Dan Carter and Sitiveni Sivivatu.

‘We were completely outplayed – New Zealand in 2005 was probably one of the best All Black teams I played against,’ Williams explained. ‘We were outmuscled, we were outfought, they were absolute class. I remember playing in that second Test and Dan Carter was everywhere. It was probably his best game in a New Zealand shirt I’d say, he was scoring points for fun.

‘They were incredible on that tour. Not only were the Test games tough, the midweek matches as well were so physical, so hard, but that’s life. Sometimes you come up against better teams, better players and you learn a lot from it. I like to think I learned a lot from that tour and wouldn’t change it – it’s been and it’s gone.’

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