THE LIONS MAY ROAR IN SA AFTER ALL

RUGBY fans were yesterday given the clearest indication that the Test series between the world champion Springboks and British & Irish Lions would go ahead as planned.

Both SA Rugby and the British & Irish Lions confirmed that they would prefer to have the upcoming tour in South Africa, in the scheduled playing window.

The Covid-19 pandemic has caused a lot of havoc on the global sporting calendar over the last year, which led to doubts as to whether SA would be able to host the series.

Having turned down an offer from Rugby Australia to play the series Down Under, and the proposal to play it in the United Kingdom, the Lions Board have told SA Rugby their preference is playing the series in SA.

“I can confirm that the Board’s intended position is for the Tour to go ahead as scheduled in South Africa in 2021,” said Jason Leonard, chairman of the British & Irish Lions.

“We acknowledge that there is a significant amount of work still to be undertaken to deliver a robust Covid-19 countermeasure plan to ensure a successful, safe and uninterrupted tour. SA Rugby will have our full support to help implement this plan.”

SA Rugby president Mark Alexander said: “We appreciate the Lions’ faith and share their desire to see a safe and successful tour.

“We have been in regular contact with our government. There are serious financial implications for SA Rugby, should the event take place without any supporters in attendance, and we cannot ignore that in our considerations. But we are determined that the eventual outcome will deliver the best occasion and experience for players, supporters and our commercial partners.”

SA Rugby added that the original tour schedule was subject to review, and any changes will be communicated as soon as possible. Fans who purchased tickets through the ballot were entitled to a full refund.