Magners League Official Website : Ryan Jones drafted in by Lions

Ryan Jones drafted in by Lions

10 June 2005, 10:00 am

By Graham Jenkins

Ospreys and Wales forward Ryan Jones has been called up to join the British & Irish Lions in New Zealand amid growing concerns about the fitness of Edinburgh's Simon Taylor.

Jones, a member of Wales' RBS 6 Nations Grand Slam squad this season, is to fly out as the third Lions squad addition after England lock Simon Shaw and Ireland flanker Simon Easterby.

Scotland star Taylor is struggling with a hamstring problem and has withdrawn from the Lions starting line-up for tomorrow's game against New Zealand Maori.

Lions officials say that Jones is not replacing Taylor, but the decision to fly Jones out suggests Taylor's tour could soon be over.

Jones is currently with the Wales squad in North America but is expected to arrive in New Zealand on Monday.

Lions head coach Sir Clive Woodward said: ``Simon's discomfort following today's training session is causing us some concern but we are still hopeful that he will be able to work through it and contend for a Test spot.

``But in the meantime we are adding Ryan Jones to the touring party. I offer my congratulations to Ryan, he has had a good season with Wales, he has made an impact on the international scene very quickly and we look forward to him joining us next week.''