Lions will continue to roar

All Blacks skipper Read confident the tourists will be back in future

KIERAN Read insists the British and Irish Lions’ future is not in doubt – no matter the result in the Test series with New Zealand.

The Lions’ very future came under scrutiny in 2005 when Sir Clive Woodward’s men were whitewashed 3-0 on the last trip to New Zealand.

Sir Ian McGeechan and Warren Gatland have rebuilt the famed touring side’s reputation and standing ever since, but rugby’s congested global calendar has continued to threaten the Lions’ place in the world game.

The Lions are continuing to push for extra preparation time in the final weeks leading up to future tours amid tensions over the global schedule to follow the 2019 World Cup.

Back-to-back world champions New Zealand eased past head coach Gatland’s men 30-15 in the first Test and could wrap up the series with a game to spare with victory at Wellington’s Westpac Stadium today – but Read still believes the 2017 Lions will not be the last to tour New Zealand.

Asked if a tough series for the Lions could jeopardise their future, Read replied: “I don’t think that will happen.

“It’s just been so exciting being around the country the last couple of weeks.

“It’s been awesome, the Lions are so passionate about the game and I’m sure it will continue for many years to come.”

Four-page Lions special: Pages 60-63

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