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Jones: Lions call-ups should be on merit, not geographical proximity
By Christopher Devine
England players are expected to be overlooked when additions to the British and Irish Lions squad are announced, leaving Eddie Jones to question the process that is being followed.
While no call-ups have yet been confirmed by the Lions, it is believed Warren Gatland will add up to six players to his squad in order to ensure those featuring in the three Tests against New Zealand are not required to play twice in a week.
On Friday, multiple reports claimed the extra players would come from Wales and Scotland, who are currently on respective tours in Australasia.
As a result, the likes of Dylan Hartley, Chris Robshaw, Joe Launchbury and George Ford - all thought to be strong contenders for Gatland's initial 41-man squad - are expected to remain with England in Argentina.
England head coach Jones told BBC Radio 5 live: "The Lions is a prestigious team - when you become a Lion, you're remembered for life.
"My only comment would be I would like to see it picked on merit rather than geographical proximity.
"It's only a 13-hour trip from here to New Zealand. The [England] boys could be there."
Always been sad never to have become a Lion. Turns out I was merely geographically naive.
— David Flatman (@davidflatman) June 16, 2017
The Lions face the Maori All Blacks on Saturday as they look to bounce back from a second tour defeat in midweek, at the hands of the Highlanders.
A clash with the Chiefs follows next Tuesday before the first Test against the All Blacks on June 24.
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Latest Comments
The prem games this season have mainly been great to watch , with the exception of Sale. So boring and predictable.
Let's have more of Bristol, Bath , Quins etc style of play.
Rugby needs expansive play to put more bums on seats . Not the dirge of rolling forward mauls constantly trying to bully their way over the line.
It has its place yes to draw the defence but the fans want to see more running rugby . Not win at any cost and sod the entertainment .
Go to commentsSo Borthwick should drop Marcus Smith? He's the odd one out, forcing the rest of the English backline into a gameplay they don't know. Replacing him with Fin or Ford makes everyone more likely to succeed.
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