Lions Tour

Although I suspect this will end up being classified as a test match, I think it devalues Lions test caps by doing it. Test caps should be limited to the 23s that make match day squads for the end of series test matches, not given to a load of third rate Scots and the like getting capped in what is effectively a warm up game because Gregor Townsend has pitched for them at the selection meetings and because the English season finished later than the Rainbow Cup.

I see this game as being similar to a world cup warm up game - for what it's worth I don't personally like seeing caps issued for RWC warm up games either - I feel it devalues international caps by doing it.

Burkie1203 wrote: »

https://twitter.com/RuaidhriOC/status/1407792764226527235?s=19

I don’t see why it’s deeply concerning.

I’m very happy that the best Rugby players in this country are vaccinated so they don’t get sick, and if it’s good enough for the best Irish rugby players then i cant complain when other nations get it.

AFAIK there are no fans traveling so what’s the increased level of risk? I just don’t see what is increasing the risk to say it’s deeply concerning.

Shaka Hislop wrote: »

Just because you are vaccinated doesn't mean you can't get sick
There will be ancillary staff travelling who may not be vaccinated, sports journalists travelling who may not be vaccinated.
People aren't always forthcoming about cases as we see today with North Macedonia in the Europeans, seems they are being investigated for having active cases when playing Holland.
An outbreak, and a third wave approaching does not bode well for SA....the idea of playing rugby while people could be sick and dying in the area is not a very good one imo

Every game of rugby in the history of games of rugby has been played while people are sick and dying in the area.

Shaka Hislop wrote: »

And once again you ignored 90% of my original post... selective quoting seems to be your little forté

That’s because 90% of your post was pointless conjecture not worthy of a response.

Would be fantastic if this farce of a “sporting” event was cancelled
I guess apartheid didn’t stop lions touring to South Africa (until we’ll after everyone else) so why would a pandemic eh

Shaka Hislop wrote: »

Not in an area that has approx 60k deaths during a pandemic that seems to be surging again

In fairness, the Covid situation in Ireland in January was worse and no one suggested that we cancel the 6N.

Shaka Hislop wrote: »

Nothing worthy to add, as usual, cool

What’s the point in responding to your line about “just because your vaccinated doesn’t mean you can’t get sick”

Should i examine the risk factors related to flying versus somebody who has received a proven vaccine and then determine how stupid a statement you just made is? Surely there is a risk of flying as well that is equally as tiny.

Should I point out to you that very publicly the Lions have indicated that ALL members of the touring party are vaccinated? Even though you seem to worry that some aren’t?

Should I point out that journalists travel for work? And if they are not vaccinated then they have refused a vaccine as is their want and they will be subject to testing and quarantine protocols as determined locally.

So yea, 90% of what you posted is tripe. The lions are taking a huge number of measures and they have been granted permission by the local authorities to proceed, the stadiums will be empty unfortunately so please point out what the actual risks are because of this tour an il gladly accept your point.


Otherwise I’m looking forward to watching it.

Former Former Former wrote: »

In fairness, the Covid situation in Ireland in January was worse and no one suggested that we cancel the 6N.

And the players or staff hadn’t been vaccinated either.

Furlong starting at 3 now not ideal prep for the game losing two starters already.

I don't understand the "it's all about the money" angle.

Like, the Lions tour is about the only thing left over the amateur era that is basically the same. If some bank wants to hand over a wedge of cash to be the "offical financial services partner" of the Lions, who cares? It doesn't make any odds to the games. I don't see why people get so worked up about it, it makes absolutely no difference to the rugby. If you're upset that there is too much Lions promo stuff on your social, <deep intake of breath> spend less time on social media. Yes, it can be done.

On the other hand, this week we heard that Ireland are going to play a match against the rugby titans of the USA Eagles in that stronghold of the oval ball, Las Vegas, in a direct clash with the new URC only a month after it kicks off. That is all about the money.

This is pro sport. Money is a big part of it and that genie isn't going back in the bottle. I love the Lions, I think it's absolutely brilliant - and I just ignore all the commercial stuff, ignore Sky Sports hype and watch the games.

Matt Williams. Come on.

shootermacg wrote: »

I don't really see the point of them myself. The always leave the players too overworked to manage the next season, and, we now have the case where most of the top 8 can beat the others, so it's not as big a deal taking the best from 4 teams, it's almost too much of an advantage.

133 years of tradition, brilliant spectacle for fans and pinnacle of careers and greatest honour for the players

Didn't do our players too much harm after the last 2 tours.

What's the point in anything I guess

Absolutely LOVE the Lions tours, superb entertainment and an incredible spectacle when things are going "well / normal"

This year is a crazy logistical challenge but I really hope it pays off, as its the one and only time I can cheer for the Ire, Eng, Scot players... and cheer I do, all of these lads wearing the Lions jersey, brilliant stuff.