Late Call-Ups in Rugby: From Disappointment to Stardom
London – may 23, 2024 – When injury strikes, or a suspension is served, rugby players’ dreams can be unexpectedly realised as the late call-ups are made. In recent British & Irish Lions Tours, this has created opportunities for those who initially missed the cut, leading to unexpected stardom. Who gets the call? where do they play, and when? This article explores the past impact of these late additions and considers their contribution to the tour’s success.Read on to discover some of the great success stories.
From Disappointment to Stardom: the Saga of Late Call-Ups in British & Irish Lions Tours
For 38 elite rugby players, the British & Irish Lions squad declaration is a moment of elation. But for those who miss the cut, disappointment looms large. however,history suggests that all is not lost.Injuries and suspensions often pave the way for late additions to the touring party.
Andy Farrell has hinted at open spots, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of the sport. In the professional era, an average of seven players per tour have been called up after the initial squad selection. Some, like Ryan Jones, tom Croft, and Alex Corbisiero, have seized the chance, becoming pivotal figures in the Test line-up.
The “Geography Six” and Other Controversies
Not all late call-ups are celebrated. Warren Gatland’s “Geography Six” in 2017 sparked controversy, generating more debate than on-field impact.
A Look Back: Late Call-Ups in Recent British & Irish Lions Tours
2021 (South Africa)
Kyle Sinckler, initially “gutted” after missing selection, received a belated call-up due to Andrew Porter’s injury. He added three more Lions caps from the bench. Adam beard also featured in the third Test, stepping in for the injured Alun Wyn Jones.
Other additions included Josh Navidi (for Justin Tipuric), Marcus Smith, and Rónan Kelleher.
2017 (New Zealand)
The “Geography Six”-Kristian Dacey, Allan Dell, Cory Hill, Gareth Davies, Finn Russell, and Tomas Francis-were summoned after the Wales vs. Tonga and Scotland vs. Australia matches. This decision drew criticism, particularly after the Lions suffered a midweek loss to the Blues.
Other late additions included Cory Hill, who earned a Test cap, and elliot Daly, who replaced the injured Jared Payne.
2013 (Australia)
Alex Corbisiero, initially on holiday in New York, received a life-changing call after injuries to several front-rowers. He not only joined the squad but also started in the decisive third Test, contributing to the Lions’ series victory.
Other late additions included Shane Jennings,Billy Twelvetrees,and Brad Barritt.
2009 (South Africa)
The brutal 2009 tour saw several late call-ups, including Ross Ford, John Hayes, and James Hook. tom Croft, given the nod after Alan Quinlan’s suspension, played in all three Tests, scoring two tries in the first.
Other additions included Tim Payne, Ryan Jones, Mike Blair, and Gordon D’Arcy.
2005 (New Zealand)
Clive woodward initially planned to add injured England players to his squad.Jonny Wilkinson made the cut, joining a 44-man touring party. Ryan Jones, flown in from Wales’ North America tour, became a standout player, appearing in all three Tests.
Other additions included Mark Cueto, Simon shaw, simon Easterby, Jason White, and Brent Cockbain.
2001 (Australia)
Martin Corry, not initially a first choice for England, made a notable impact, playing in all three Tests. Other late arrivals included Dorian West, Tyrone Howe, David Wallace, Gordon Bulloch, Andy Nicol, and Scott Gibbs.
1997 (South Africa)
Ian McGeechan and Jim Telfer called on six additional players,including Kyran Bracken,Mike Catt,Tony Diprose,Nigel Redman,Paul Wallace,and Tony Stanger. Tighthead Wallace earned a Test start, playing all three Tests.
Total Late Additions Per Tour
- 2021 (South Africa): 5
- 2017 (New Zealand): 9
- 2013 (Australia): 9
- 2009 (South Africa): 8
- 2005 (New Zealand): 7
- 2001 (Australia): 7
- 1997 (South Africa): 6
