Croft ready to join Lions’ big game hunt
The England and Leicester back row was considered the unluckiest player to miss out on selection for the original 37-man party.
Instead, Quinlan was a surprise pick by head coach Ian McGeechan, who must now revise his plans in light of the Munster man’s 12-week ban for making contact with the eye area of Leo Cullen in the Heineken Cup semi-final.
The option of appeal remains open but Quinlan is unlikely to secure a reprieve, clearing the path for Croft to take his place for the tour in South Africa.
“If I get the call it would be massive and several players have told me how it feels to be a part of a Lions tour,” he said.
“When I was first left out (of the Lions) I was disappointed but I’ve had so much to think about with Leicester that I haven’t had too much time to dwell on it.”
Leicester meet London Irish at Twickenham in a showdown for the Guinness Premiership title tomorrow.
Seven days later the double-cashing Tigers collide with Leinster in the Heineken Cup showpiece at Murrayfield as they attempt to reclaim the European crown they last won in 2002.
But rather than be daunted by a gruelling spell that has included victories against Bath and Cardiff, Croft insists they are inspired by the size of the prizes at stake.
“Every match this season has been massive,” said the 23-year-old, who has won 12 caps. “It’s always about getting in the top four, getting in the top two.”
Leicester start as clear favourites against a side that finished two places below in them in the Premiership but Croft fears Irish are coming good at the right time.
“Irish are a superb team with dangerous runners who will turn scraps into points,” he said.
“They’re a expansive side with some very mobile players. It’s a good-looking style they play.
“But we have the scope to play to our strengths with Sam Vesty bossing it at 10.
“But Irish can win silverware and big matches playing the way they do.”
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