Welsh duo Adam Beard (Ospreys, Wales) and Josh Navidi (Cardiff Rugby, Wales) have been called into The British & Irish Lions 37-man touring squad to replace Tour captain Alun Wyn Jones (Ospreys, Wales) and Justin Tipuric (Ospreys, Wales).
Jones and Tipuric both sustained Tour-ending shoulder injuries during the Lions 28-10 win over Japan at BT Murrayfield Stadium today for The Vodafone Lions 1888 Cup. Conor Murray (Munster Rugby, Ireland) takes over as Tour captain from Jones.
“We’re all incredibly disappointed for Alun Wyn and Justin,” said Lions Head Coach, Warren Gatland.
“The timing of these injuries seem particularly cruel given we fly to South Africa tomorrow, but unfortunately they’re part of the game.
“Alun Wyn will obviously be a big loss, both on and off the field, but will be ably replaced by Conor.”
“Conor is an outstanding rugby player and is held in the highest regard with both the players and coaches. As a three-time Lions tourist, he knows what will be required as captain and I am certain he will lead the squad with excellence. He will also be well supported by an experienced leadership group.
“We plan for Adam and Josh to join up with the touring party before we depart for South Africa tomorrow evening.”
Lions say goodbye to their partners as they jet off to South Africa
#1. Georgie & Owen Farrell (England)
Despite him being England captain, Farrell’s wife Georgie likes to keep her life extremely private. The couple married in the summer of 2018 and Georgie gave birth to their son, Tommy, in March 2019.
