Lions tour to South Africa in doubt amid Covid-19 uncertainty

The British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa has been placed in question soon after handling director Ben Calveley revealed talks are being held in excess of its viability.

The coronavirus pandemic, which has noticed new strains arise from England and South Africa, has forged uncertainty over regardless of whether the tour can go forward as prepared.

The Lions are scheduled to depart on June 27 for an eight-match itinerary that culminates in a a few-Exam series against the Springboks.

But Calveley understands the require to make a choice quicker fairly than later with February established as the deadline.

“As you would count on, we are progressing with our programs dependent on the most recent information readily available to us,” Calveley said.

“On the other hand, provided the uncertainty that proceeds to be triggered by the coronavirus pandemic equally in South Africa, as perfectly as the British isles and Eire, we are extremely conscious of the want to make a well timed conclusion on the greatest way ahead.

“Not minimum this is so that we can deliver clarity to supporters booked to travel to South Africa following summertime, or those people pondering of creating the vacation.

“To day, the Lions board has experienced repeated conferences to go over all situations offered and is in frequent dialogue.

“It will fulfill throughout January and into February, if expected, to review all pertinent details and info.”

Calveley reported an update would be supplied in “owing system”.

He extra: “In the meantime, we go on standard dialogue with our partners in the Uk, Eire and South Africa, which include the British Higher Fee in Pretoria, the Irish Embassy and a variety of authorities departments, to confirm as considerably information and facts as doable on this fast-evolving, intricate scenario.”