Just when it looked like it was getting better, things got a lot worse for the Lions.
After a couple of impressive wins on the trot for the Lions, their momentum was halted by New Zealand in the first Test match last Saturday where they lost 30-15. They went on to relinquish a 14 point lead to the Hurricanes on Tuesday morning as they drew 31-31.
When you put up a score like that but also concede such a high amount there are always going to be winners and losers.
Iain Henderson was praised for his performance, as was Jack Nowell, but the Telegraph highlighted one Irish player that was a “loser” from Tuesday’s match.
CJ Stander was touted as the starting Number 8 for the tour but it soon became clear that Taulupe Faletau would hold the spot for the all important test series.
After Tuesday’s performance, the English newspaper didn’t think that Stander did enough to force his way into the Test side.
“The Ireland back-row’s tackle and carries count rose into double figures not for the first time on tour.” wrote Ben Coles.
“Going forward however Stander just hasn’t made enough ground, his average for Tuesday’s game sitting at 1.75 metres per run.
“That won’t be enough to shift Taulupe Falateau from the Test side, with (Iain) Henderson more effective in the loose leaving Stander on the outside looking in.”
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