Lions get Roby roaring

JAMES ROBY has hailed the return of the Great Britain Lions and vowed to go full circle with them.

A Lions tour Down Under, against New Zealand, Tonga and Papua New Guinea, was confirmed yesterday.

The iconic team will turn out for the first time since 2007 and Roby admits it will give players extra hunger. The St Helens hooker, 33, said: “It is fantastic news and it will be unbelievable to be involved. I made my international debut with Great Britain in 2006 and if I get selected it will be a huge honour.

“I am not a spring chicken any more and it might be my last chance so I will be doing everything possible to get in the team.”

Australia have refused to be involved though and Roby added: “It’s a bit disappointing but the tour will be a success. The players will represent the badge with pride.”

The Lions play Tonga in Hamilton on October 26, New Zealand in Auckland and Christchurch on November 2 and 9 and Papua New Guinea in Port Moresby on November 16.

RFL rugby director Kevin Sinfield said: “Some real legends have worn that jersey. It will humble the players who get to wear it.”

Sinfield said only the best players will be selected including overseas stars who qualify through family or residency.

He added: “We’d love all four nations to be represented but it’s really important we don’t devalue the shirt.

“We’ll pick the best possible player in each position.”

England boss Wayne Bennett will coach the Lions and said: “It is an exciting prospect for international rugby league and good to have that Great Britain tradition back.”