Jenkins emphasises role of players not selected

As the British & Irish Lions approach the announcement of the team for the first Test, assistant coach, Neil Jenkins reminded the players of the important role that the non-selected individuals play on tour. 

The Lions face the Springboks for the first Test on Saturday in Cape Town and are due to announce their squad tomorrow (Wednesday) and, as always, there will be some disappointed faces in camp. 

"There’ll be some good chats with players that are not involved," said Jenkins. 

"That'll probably be from Gats and the coaches. Of course, there'll be coaches and staff keeping a close eye on people, there's no doubting that. 

"It’s human nature. If you're not involved in a Test team, you're going to be disappointed. It's common sense. 

"But on the other hand, you’re in a squad and an environment where you’ve got to pull yourself together quickly and get back on the training pitch to prepare the Test side as well as possible. 

"It is a two-way thing. Some players will be involved, some won't. 

"It’s important that the training is of a high standard and high quality and we prepare the boys as best as we can. 

"It’s not easy," he continued. 

"I've been there before. You're a regular for your country. You can come here and not play a Test match. That's the reality of it. 

"You've got to focus your mind and prepare the team as best as you possibly can. I think the boys will do that no matter who is in or out."