Rugby News, Analysis, History, Schedule, Rumours
The series is level after two tests in South Africa for the first time in 66 years, and Warren Gatland has several dilemmas to deal with. Here’s the side that he should be going with to get a famous series victory over the reigning world champions. Warren Gatland knows big games Gatland has made a […] READ MORE
Eagle eyed Twitter users have started to notice that Rassie Erasmus may well be using a second, ‘burner,’ account to highlight calls that have gone against the Springboks on the 2021 Lions tour. Rassie Erasmus’ 2nd account? An account that began with 0 followers, replied to Erasmus’ tweet, congratulating the Lions for their victory, and […] READ MORE
It was not a classic, far from it but as befitting a British and Irish Lions series the first Test had its fair share of tension and controversy. The Lions won 22-17 but in truth, neither side excelled in what was an error-strewn and nervy affair. The Springboks barely broke sweat to take a first-half […] READ MORE
With his usual enthusiasm, Scott Robertson is seeking International rugby coaching experience. And as is his way, he has taken the unusual step of offering his services to the British and Irish Lions coach, Warren Gatland. The offer is a promise that if selected by Lions management, that Robertson will bring his Super Rugby success […] READ MORE
Now that the Lions tour has begun, the question crossing my mind is, “Will this year’s Lions tour be remembered as worth it, or folly?” With news filtering back of hastily scheduled rematches, coronavirus induced self-isolation and footage of the empty stadiums. You would be correct in asking, “Is it worth the bother?” Lions tour […] READ MORE
The choice to leave out Josh Navidi from Warren Gatland’s initial 37-man Lions squad was one that not many predicted. He was arguably Wales’ best player in their winning 2021 Six Nations campaign and he is more than capable of going toe-to-toe with the Springboks. Whilst the inclusions of Tom Curry, Taulupe Faletau and Justin […] READ MORE
Despite a leak yesterday afternoon, the British & Irish Lions have named a slightly different one to that in The Times. Robert Rees brings you the team news. British & Irish Lions team: 15. Stuart Hogg (Exeter Chiefs, Scotland) #783 14. Anthony Watson (Bath Rugby, England) #816 13. Elliot Daly (Saracens, England) #822 12. Robbie […] READ MORE
British & Irish Lions come from all corners of the UK, but you may be hard-pressed to recognise some of the players in the youth or community club days. Robert Rees looks back at the pre-professional days of the Welsh Lions. Adam Beard – Birchgrove/Aberavon The Welsh lock was a late call-up to the squad, […] READ MORE
What makes a British and Irish Lions tour so special? The players involved are the best of the best. There are no passengers on the bus heading towards the Lions first test squad selection. Everyone can make the test team and that is why the media love speculating the matchday 23. Announced days ago, deciphering […] READ MORE
The British and Irish Lions and Springbok squads for Saturday’s first Test have been announced. A day earlier than originally planned. British and Irish Lions and Springbok squads South Africa: 15 Willie le Roux, 14 Cheslin Kolbe, 13 Lukhanyo Am, 12 Damian de Allende, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Handre Pollard, 9 Faf de Klerk, 8 […] READ MORE
Ryan is the Managing Editor at Last Word on Rugby and resides in Johannesburg, South Africa. He specializes in opinion pieces relating to International rugby, Super Rugby and domestic rugby in South Africa.
His career highlights include being granted media accreditation for the Rugby World Cup tournament.