Fitzpatrick backs Lions concept
Tue, 14 Jul 2009 09:39
Legendary New Zealand skipper, Sean Fitzpatrick says that British & Irish Lions should be expanded, not abandoned.
Fitzpatrick entered the debate over the future of the tours by claiming these tours remain a major force in world rugby.
It has been 12 years since the Lions last won a series (in South Africa), with their recent victory over South Africa in the final Test ending a credibility-damaging run of seven successive defeats.
Fitzpatrick, who won three of his 92 caps when he led the All Blacks to victory against the Lions in 1993, believes they the concept is still very strong despite the recent disappointments.
"The Lions are probably the most powerful brand in world rugby. Without question they have a future," said Fitzpatrick.
"Winning that third Test against South Africa was paramount but even had they lost they'd still be a viable brand.
"You ask anyone who has played against the Lions and they'll tell you they're one of the greatest teams to play against. I'd have thought six games before the first Test would be enough.
"They say they need more, so give them more matches to make them more competitive. But look at that series just gone – they should have won it and could have won it 3-0.
"Even if you just look at them in terms of being a money-making brand, they're phenomenal."