Williams tips Lions to take series in SA

Williams tips Lions to take series in SA

Welsh and British & Irish Lions legend Shane Williams appears optimistic about the Lions chances against the Springboks and has tipped the men in red to leave South African shores with a series victory under the belt. 

 

Both squads have been announced and it is clear from the names thrown out that a titanic contest is looming. The Lions will play several warm up games against South African provincial and invitational opposition before the first test kicks off on 24 July. 

 

Talking to bbc.com, Williams said: "I think the Lions have a strong enough squad to beat South Africa. 


 

"They have players with confidence and I think the boys will do the business. 


 

Former Wales wing Shane Williams affray charge dropped - BBC News

"They are two very strong squads. 

 

"South Africa are the world champions and have some the best players on the planet on that team and it's all about the match-ups as well. 

 

"It is probably the strongest Lions squad in my lifetime. You have championship winners and players doing well for club and country with some real experience blended with young talent. 

 

"The match-ups are fantastic, but I do think the Lions have them individually. Only time will tell and the Lions players have to play midweek games and prove to Gatland they are up for the job." 

 

Williams was a member of the 2009 Lions touring squad which lost the series to the Springboks 2-1. 

 

"I was on the 2009 tour and it was the one that got away," he said. 

 

Lions tour set to take place as planned in South Africa

"It might have been 12 years ago, but it will be the same for Gats and he will be determined to go there and do the business." 

 

Williams also believes that much will depend on the squad’s ability to handle being in a ‘Covid bubble’ for two months. 

 

"I have been in situations where you have to stay in hotels for a long time and that's difficult enough, so I feel for the lads," said Williams. 

 

"They are probably used to it by now because they have been involved in a season in that environment. 

 

"The Lions tour was all about the fans and the camaraderie between players and supporters and they are not going to get that experience. 

 

"These boys know they have a job to do and the whole purpose is to win those three Tests. 

 

"It is one of the toughest places to play rugby against the world champions. They will be focused and ready." 

 

 

 

  

Latest News