Expand Lions, All Black great Fitzpatrick says

NEW ZEALAND great Sean Fitzpatrick has entered the debate over the future of the British and Irish Lions by claiming their tours should be expanded not abandoned.

It is 12 years since the Lions won a series, with their recent victory over South Africa in the final Test ending a credibility-damaging run of seven successive defeats.

The 28-9 triumph in Johannesburg concluded an epic series that made for gripping viewing, yet questions persist over the relevance of the Lions in the professional era. Fitzpatrick, who won three of his 92 caps when he led the All Blacks to victory against the elite of British and Irish rugby in 1993, believes they remain a major force that must be preserved.

“The Lions are probably the most powerful brand in world rugby. Without question, they have a future,” said Fitzpatrick.

“Winning that third Test against South Africa was paramount but even had they lost, they’d still be a viable brand. You ask anyone who has played against the Lions and they’ll tell you they’re one of the greatest teams to play against.

“Even if you just look at them in terms of being a money-making brand, they’re phenomenal.”

The Lions’ agonising defeat in the second Test was overshadowed by Schalk Burger’s escape with a yellow card for eye-gouging, an offence that later resulted in an eight-week ban.

Widespread condemnation of the brevity of his suspension followed and Fitzpatrick believes the International Rugby Board must rid the game of its most x-rated offence.

“I know Schalk and it was totally out of character but that sort of incident needs to be rubbed out,” he said.

“It’s totally unacceptable. By not increasing the ban the IRB have missed an opportunity.

“There’s been a real spate of eye-gouging cases recently.”

Meanwhile, Gavin Henson last night insisted he has “no intention” of quitting rugby.

The Wales and Ospreys centre, 27, met with club executives yesterday and confirmed he was not considering an early retirement.

Reports today suggested Henson, who is recovering from a groin injury, had become disillusioned with the sport.

Henson said last night: “I’ve certainly been having difficulties with the recurring injury but I have no intention of quitting the game.

“I’m receiving the best medical care to help me address the injury problem, and I’m sure that I’ll be able to put it behind me in the very near future.”

The 27-year-old Wales centre had reportedly told the Ospreys, that he was taking time away decision to take time away.