Talks held over viability of 2021 Lions tour

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The British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa has been put in question immediately after running director Ben Calveley disclosed talks are staying held around its viability.

The coronavirus pandemic, which has viewed new strains arise from England and South Africa, has forged uncertainty more than regardless of whether the tour can go in advance as prepared.

The Lions are scheduled to depart on June 27 for an eight-match itinerary that culminates in a a few-Check collection towards the Springboks.

February deadline

But Calveley understands the need to have to make a selection faster rather than later with February set as the deadline.

“As you would assume, we are progressing with our options centered on the most up-to-date data obtainable to us,” Calveley explained.

“However, presented the uncertainty that carries on to be triggered by the coronavirus pandemic both equally in South Africa, as nicely as the British isles and Ireland, we are really informed of the will need to make a well timed selection on the very best way forward.

.”Not least this is so that we can give clarity to supporters booked to vacation to South Africa subsequent summer time, or individuals considering of earning the vacation.

“To day, the Lions board has experienced repeated conferences to explore all situations accessible and is in consistent dialogue.

“It will fulfill in the course of January and into February, if essential, to assessment all applicable info and details.”

Update to be offered

Calveley mentioned an update would be presented in “due course”.

He extra: “In the meantime, we continue typical discussion with our partners in the Uk, Eire and South Africa, which includes the British High Fee in Pretoria, the Irish Embassy and a variety of governing administration departments, to ascertain as much information and facts as possible on this speedy-evolving, intricate condition.”