British and Irish Lions Series update - 5-4-2017

Tana Umanga on attack in 2005

Leigh Halfpenny has confirmed that he has been released by Toulon for the British and Irish Lions series this summer as part of a one-year extension at Toulon. Last tour’s player of the tour and record-breaking try scorer stated that it was a major portion of the agreement to extend a year.

“When I went through the process of whether to take up this extra year I spoke with Mourad and said that for me to stay on I would want to go on the Lions tour, if selected”

“They agreed to put in a clause for the Lions release. Mourad said to me, ‘We know how big the Lions is for you as a Welshman and we are happy to let you go.’” 

This comes as a stark change from four years ago. In 2013, Toulon refused to release any of their players for the tour until the Top 14 season was complete. Mourad Boudjellal has a reputation of difficulty with releasing players. That makes this deal even more surprising, with the Lions’ opening fixture being one day before the Top 14 final.

http://therunnersports.com/british-irish-lions-update-542017/

http://www.weekendnotes.com/dhl-new-zealand-lions-series/

http://therunnersports.com/greig-laidlaw-called-up-to-lions-squad/