Lions arrive safely but Covid-19 threatens tour plans

THUMBS UP: Head coach Warren Gatland is upbeat as the British & Irish Lions arrive in South Africa. Every precaution is being taken to ensure the tour can proceed safely, with the Lions’ hand luggage being carefully sprayed with disinfectant. Picture: Dan Sheridan

The British & Irish Lions have arrived safely in South Africa but uncertainty still hangs over their tour itinerary, with rising Covid-19 infection rates in the province of Gauteng prompting increasing concern.

The possibility of staging the majority of the tour games, and potentially all three Tests, in Cape Town is under discussion, although South African officials remain keen to stick to the existing schedule.