With the first Lions Test against New Zealand just over two weeks away, the British and Irish Lions are busily preparing to take on the Crusaders tomorrow.
George North, named in the starting line up for tomorrow's game, says that the quick turn around of the matches on tour with the Lions is difficult but something that keeps the squad striving for their best form, something that they will need to insure when they face the All Blacks.
“The fact you are playing so many games in so little time, the fact that the games aren’t the easiest in the world, means you have to be on your mettle for each one," North commented.
“To be fair, to go to New Zealand and play them in their own back-yard is always going to be tough, and the rest of these games leading into the Test matches are also going to be difficult."
But facing the best international side in the world is second to the honour of the Lions call-up for North.
“For me, it is always about the next step, and it is a massive honour to play for the Lions.
“It is berserk to think I had my first cap just over six years ago, and now I am on a second Lions tour.
“The more you play, the more you get recognised and marked, so it’s understanding my role in the system and how I can apply myself within the game and be the biggest pain I can to the opposition and how I can best impose myself on the game."
Finally, with all eyes turning to which players Warren Gatland will pick for that first Test against the All Blacks, North simply said:
“To be involved with the Lions Test team would be huge.”
