Lions may be wounded, but they still have firepower

FRIDAY, NOV. 09: The Classic Lions’ squad has been hit hard by a series of high profile injuries and last minute withdrawals.

But manager Allan Martin still firmly believes his charges have what it takes to deliver at this year’s World Rugby Classic.

The team arrives in Bermuda this evening minus a few big name players, but with plenty to prove.

World Cup winning winger Josh Lewsey is out with a hamstring tear, while Irish giant Mick O’Driscoll has had to stay at home to undergo back surgery.

Also missing is Classic stalwart Shane Byrne and Welsh international, Jamie Ringer, who suffered cartilage damage in a training ground accident.

But Martin remains upbeat about his side’s chances at this year’s event.

He told the Bermuda Sun: “We have had to bring in some guys at the last minute because of injuries.

Talented

“I have spent the last month on the phone trying to see who we could recruit to join the ranks and it has not been easy because of work commitments and the short notice.

“But we have managed to bring in some talented guys.

“We have got Lyndon Bateman, who plays second row for the Ospreys, and outside half, Neil Clapham, who plays for the Scarlets, to join us and I am confident they will perform well.

“Maybe the fact we have lost some big names will play to our advantage.

“These new guys will have a point to prove and I am sure they will be giving 110 per cent.

“Sometimes with the big name players everyone expects them to perform and they only put in 75 per cent.”

The Lions will open up their account on Monday evening against a combative Canadian side, and Martin says they will be taking nothing for granted against their opponents.

He added: “There are no easy games at the Classic any more.

“Every side is capable of upsetting the odds.

“With no New Zealand this year I believe we have a very good chance.

“The Springboks will be strong and the Argies will be eager to defend their crown so there is everything to play for.

“We have underperformed in the last couple of years.

“We have got to the final a couple of times but we just have not delivered.

“This year we want to change that and give the crowd something to shout about.

“As long as we play to our potential we will put on a good show.”