McBryde – ‘A proud moment’

Wales coach Robin McBryde has revealed his pride at four Welsh players being called up to the British and Irish Lions squad.

Dragons lock Cory Hill, Cardiff Blues hooker Kristian Dacey, Scarlets scrum-half Gareth Davies and Exeter Chiefs tighthead prop Tomas Francis as well as Scottish duo Finn Russell and Allan Dell have all linked up with the Lions.

The Welsh quartet headed from Auckland to Rotorua to attend the game against the Maori All Blacks and will be in contention for the game against the Chiefs on Tuesday in Hamilton. The three match Test series against the All Blacks kicks-off in Auckland next weekend.

Acting Wales head coach McBryde, who saw all four men play key roles in the 24-6 win over the Tongans on Friday, hailed the call-ups "a proud moment" for the quartet. McBryde was himself a Lions tourist in Australia in 2001.

"We've said from the outset that we're here to support the British & Irish Lions should they need it, and we're pleased to be able to do so now that four of our players have received call-ups," said McBryde.

"Kristian, Gareth, Cory and Tomas are great professionals who have made a very positive contribution to Wales' tour so far, not least in the game at Eden Park. This is a proud moment for them and the whole Wales squad wishes them the best of luck."