Return of Lions is welcomed by Powell

Enthused Daryl Powell has welcomed the return of Lions tours, insisting it is the 'pinnacle' of rugby league.
Daryl Powell.Daryl Powell.
Daryl Powell.

The Castleford Tigers coach represented Great Britain in 33 Tests during his own playing career, featuring on three tours of the southern hemisphere, including the 1992 trip to Australia and New Zealand.

Great Britain was disbanded, though, in 2007 as the national side split into the home nations.

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However, it was confirmed this week that it will be reformed for a tour Down Under in 2019.

Powell, who also played for England in the 1995 World Cup, said: “It’s an awesome call. I feel it’s been badly missed.

“When you talk about the history of the Challenge Cup – as we have been doing ahead of our game with St Helens on Saturday, – you then look at the history of the international game and Lions tours are a big part of its fabric. It’s huge and awesome that players will now get an opportunity to go on tour and represent the sport and the country.”

Powell, sure to be touted as a potential Great Britain coach, added: “I remember playing at Melbourne when we beat them (Australia) 33-10 (in 1992).

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“I’m not sure how many thousands were there but it was significant. There was a huge following – and people buy into it. They absolutely do.

“It’s the pinnacle of rugby league. You’ve got England and people say that’s not far off the same in terms of the team perspective. But it (Lions) is different. The history and representing all those people who have gone before you. It’s crucial.”

New Zealand will tour Europe next year while the Kangaroos will do the same in 2020.

The last time Great Britain toured Australia was in 2006 as part of the Tri-Nations.