Hogg may be our only Lion
STUART HOGG is destined to be the only Scot included in the Lions tour when Warren Gatland’s squad is officially announced in London today. All the indications last night were that the Glasgow Warriors full-back will be the sole representative from north of the border for the tour to New Zealand, which kicks off in June. Wingers Tommy Seymour and Sean Maitland were the
only other names being considered, with the latter’s close relationship with Gatland possibly strengthening his case. Should Gatland, as expected, pack his squad with trusted charges from Wales and a number of inclusions from England and Ireland, it will be a bitter blow to those players who performed so admirably in Vern Cotter’s final Six Nations.
Sportsmail understands, however, that the poor performance against England, and Glasgow’s recent disappointing showing against Saracens, proved the death knell for many Scotland hopefuls. The Scots also look to be paying the price for not having a representative at Lions selection meetings. Gregor Townsend turned down the chance to join Gatland’s backroom staff because he wanted to concentrate on taking charge of Scotland for the first time on their three-match summer tour. The Lions boss could understand the reason for Townsend turning him down. He did not take so kindly to Scotland assistant head coach Jason O’Halloran, who moves to Glasgow Warriors next month, also refusing his request because he wanted to take control of the Warriors pre-season training until new head coach Dave Rennie arrived from New Zealand. England captain Dylan Hartley is set to be omitted from the Lions tour despite leading his side to two Six Nations titles, a Grand Slam, a series whitewash of Australia and a world record-equalling run of 18 Test consecutive wins. His England understudy, Saracens’ Jamie George, will be included as one of three hookers alongside Ireland skipper Rory Best and Ken Owens of Wales. There were late indications that Gatland may select more than the anticipated 37 players — and defer the final call in some areas until this morning — amid rumours that Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones’ participation is in jeopardy. The veteran lock is recovering from a shoulder injury but
Sportsmail understands that there are concerns about possible complications and the chance that surgery may be required. Sam Warburton is expected to be unveiled as Lions captain for the second time.