Photo: Getty ImagesNew Zealand Rugby have scoffed at complaints from a top English administrator that the packed itinerary for next year's British and Irish Lions tour will be too tough on players and have a knock-on effect when they return home to their clubs. While the itinerary has been known for several months, the "punishing schedule" drew criticism at the weekend from Mark McCafferty, the head of Premiership Rugby, which runs England's professional club competition. "The last time I looked I don't think he's on the Lions board," Tew said. McCafferty told British media he had been concerned neither Premiership Rugby or the Pro12, which Irish, Welsh and Scottish professional clubs compete in, had not been involved in discussions around the timing of the Lions tour. The Premiership Rugby chief executive added the potential for player burnout was a concern.

Source: Otago Daily Times August 29, 2016 01:30 UTC