Thursday May 8, 2008

England Rugby World Cup winner Jason Robinson last night joked that he may be tempted to return to professional rugby with the British & Irish Lions next summer.

Speaking in his new role as HSBC ambassador for the Tour to South Africa next summer, Jason said, “I had so many wonderful memories from my rugby career but playing for the Lions was definitely one of them.  The Lions is so unique that I may have to come out of retirement for next summer!”

Whilst the 34 year old from Leeds may have only been joking, he does admit that his memories of wearing the famous red jersey are very special to him.  “A lions tour is truly unique," he said.  "When I was selected back in 2001 I had only been on the bench for England a couple of times, and then suddenly I got the call up for the Lions.

"Having come from rugby league I didn’t know much about the Lions and so it was a strange but exciting experience for me.  I arrived at the camp and only knew half a dozen players. I had to keep staring at their initials on their shorts to know who I was talking to!”

Jason retired from international rugby in December 2007 having been one of the most successful rugby players of both codes in recent times.  He was joined at a special HSBC Lions debate at the Tate Britain in London last night by four other Lions Legends – Gareth Edwards, Gavin Hastings and Jason’s former Lions roommate Brian O’Driscoll.

Robinson said, “That is another thing that is unique and amazing about a Lions Tour.

You get to room with, and get to know players that you normally play against for your country. You create a special bond and can learn so much just from being with so many quality players from four nations. 

"I didn’t really know much about Brian – he was a young lad then and I enjoyed getting to know him.  He is an amazing player and I was honoured to play under him when he captained in 2005.”