LIST: 5 players who are reportedly on the Lions standby list

Friday, 07 May 2021 at 21:03

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byRugby Rucker

A host of world-class players have been left out of Warren Gatland's 37-man squad for South Africa, but these five are thought to be on his secret Lions standby list.

All of them could very well end up joining the British & Irish Lions later on in South Africa when injuries and suspensions start to set in.

Lions standby list:

#5. Manu Tuilagi (England)

When he's fit, England are a different team. But he's not fit, at least not yet. It's been reported in the Paper's today that Tuilagi did recieve a letter and there is every chance that he could end up in South Africa during the tour at some point.

Did you know? He was named Manusamoa, after the name of the Samoan national team, Manu Samoa, because his brother Freddie was selected for Samoa at the World Cup in 1991, the year Manu was born

#4. Jonny Gray (Scotland)

It is the second time the Exeter Chiefs star has been snubbed by coach Warren Gatland, after he was overlooked by the head coach for the tour of New Zealand in 2017. He is thought to be the first cab of the rank though if a second-row pulls out. however.

Did you know? Gray started playing rugby at Cambuslang Rugby Club where he progressed from the mini section (at 7 years old) through to first XV regular at the age of 16.

#3. Sam Underhill (England)

Underhill shone at the 2019 World Cup but missed this year's Six Nations through injury. Eddie Jones' men probably didn't miss any player as much as the former Ospreys flanker. Gataland is known to be a huge fan, having tipped him for selection previously. Destructive tackler though who would not let the Lions down.

Did you know? He studied Politics and Economics at the University of Bath

#2. Danny Care (England)

Without question the form scrum-half in the Premiership and at 34, a Lions call-up didn't seem that absurd when reports emerged he could be a shock inclusion earlier in t week. The Telegraph revealed he was on the long-list and have suggested he would be the next scrum-half to fly out to South Africa.

Did you know? At age 11 he was invited to join the Academy at Sheffield Wednesday Football Club where he played up front alongside a young Jamie Vardy

#1. Leigh Halfpenny (Wales)

The fullback - having toured three times before - is expected thought to be the first back-three option for Gatland call in at short notice, according to Wales Online.