British & Irish Lions consider Jersey for training camp if 2021 tour is diverted to The UK

The British & Irish Lions could be heading for Jersey this summer.

The famous rugby outfit could use the island as a training base if their summer tour to South Africa is rearranged to Europe.

Jersey’s Minister for Sport, Senator Lyndon Farnham together with Deputy Raymond and government officials met British & Irish Lions representatives as part of a wider visit to the island last week.

Lions head coach Warren Gatland visited Jersey to assess the new elite performance complex 'Strive' which will open later this year. Gatland and Lions representatives were given an exemption from self-isolation because they are currently part of a 'Lions bubble' that is "tested regularly."

Talks with The British Lions were initiated by 'Strive' Managing Director Ben Harvey earlier this year.

Although a final decision on where the tour will be held is expected next month, excitement is already starting to build on the island.

If The Lions do pitch up in Jersey this summer then it could be the start of something special for the island.

Jersey's government say they are also open to welcoming the South African Rugby team but there have not been any discussions to date.