Scarlets hope for four-star selection
THE Scarlets are hoping to boast a record contingent of Lions when Warren Gatland unveils his squad next week, writes Rob Lloyd
April 19 is D-day for those in contention to represent Britain and Ireland’s finest in New Zealand this summer.
And as the clock ticks down towards Gatland’s big announcement, Scarlets head coach Wayne Pivac believes the West Walians could have as many as four players on the plane.
Skipper Ken Owens, centre Jonathan Davies and full-back Liam Williams are being heavily tipped to make the party, while prop Rob Evans and centre Scott Williams are also in the mix.
It is understood that Jake Ball’s performances during the Six Nations have also impressed Gatland, although second row competition is as tough as any.
You have to go back to 1974, when the Llanelli club side provided four members of the famous ‘Invincibles’ that conquered South Africa – Phil Bennett, Roy Bergiers, Tommy David and JJ Williams – for the last time the Scarlets had that number in the squad.
Since then, the most it’s been is three in 2001, with Davies and George North part of Gatland’s squad that toppled the Wallabies four years ago.
“I think we are in a position at the Scarlets where I am hoping we get a record number, I wouldn’t be surprised if we get four,” said Pivac.
“Certainly, there are a group who have put their hands up during the Six Nations and we wish those boys well.
“We have got one more game this weekend (Dragons on Judgement Day) where players can show they are worthy of representing the Lions, if not Wales, it is an exciting weekend.
“If we got four that would be fantastic.”
Asked about the tourists’ chances against the world champions, Pivac – who has coached at provincial and Super rugby level with Auckland and the Blues – added: “It is all going to come down to selection and not only with the squad.
“Once the squad is together in New Zealand it is the timing of putting that first Test side together and how many runouts they get.
“The All Blacks are vulnerable traditionally in that first Test in June so it will be interesting to see what they are doing.
“The Lions will come better prepared for that first Test than normal touring teams like Wales last year. The Lions could have a bit of an advantage depending on the All Blacks’ preparation.”