Disruptions bringing Lions closer together

An upside of one of the most disrupted British & Irish Lions tours in history is that all the complications appear to be galvanising the team. 

The squad heads to Cape Town this weekend in preparation for the SA ‘A’ game and first test, all except attack coach Gregor Townsend, one unnamed player and three members of staff who must remain in isolation. 

Speaking to sportsmole.co.uk, hooker Jamie George seems positive about the way the Lions are reacting in the face of adversity. 

"We're in a pretty good spot. Connection-wise we're getting much tighter off the field," said George. 

"All the disruptions and stuff going on off the field really is bringing us tighter together as a group. We're starting to see that in the way that we train. 

"We didn't put it out there for a full 80 against the Sharks, but in terms of the rugby it feels like we're building nicely. 

"Of course it's ideal preparation. You're playing against South African teams. We've scored a lot of points and our attack is in really good shape at the moment," George said. 

"We know there will be a step up intensity, there always is when you play the world champions at their home ground, but at the same time the teams we've played against have impressed as well in terms of their emotion, physicality and intensity. 

"We got a good hit out and everything is on course for the step up in intensity for when it comes to South Africa."