Lions to camp in Jersey – Guernsey to lose out?

Lions coach Warren Gatland, the New Zealander whose two-day visit to the island over Easter weekend caused such controversy, told the Jersey Evening Post yesterday that the Lions squad would be heading to Jersey as a pre-tour training venue in June.

There was no confirmation yesterday on Guernsey’s chances, but as the Lions do appear to plan to spend a fortnight in Jersey, they now look slim.

Mr Gatland visited Jersey in February to inspect the island’s sports facilities and accommodation, in what appeared to be a controversy-free trip. He is reported to be due back in the island today.

‘It’s something we hadn’t thought about originally but there was an approach from Jersey and we’re now definitely looking to go there,’ he told the JEP at a press conference yesterday morning when he unveiled his coaching staff for the South Africa tour.

It is understood that the Lions intend to confirm their itinerary for June and July by the end of this week.

‘We understand we may need to quarantine for a certain amount of time but there’s a potential for almost normality in Jersey in preparation for that first game against Japan, before we go into a pretty secure bubble for South Africa. That’s definitely one of the factors we considered for Jersey.’

It is understood that further talks will happen this week with Lions medical staff and key advisers. The touring party is expected to be vaccinated before the tour.

‘We’re working towards that,’ added Mr Gatland, who submitted to Covid tests for his short stay in Guernsey. ‘We feel it will be important to have that in place. Like everyone else, I will be doing my bit to ensure we have a safe and secure environment.’