For someone who won World Cups, Six Nations and everything there is to win at club level, it’s saying something that Lawrence Dallaglio regards the British and Irish Lions as the pinnacle of his career.
The former England No.8 went on three Lions tours, notably playing all three Tests in the 2-1 victory over South Africa in 1997.
He was also part of the squads that travelled to Australia in 2001 and New Zealand in 2005, but injury cut short both of those tours for him.
However for Dallaglio, the history behind the team made those tours, and particularly the 1997 experience, one he will cherish forever.
“The Lions is the pinnacle of your career. It’s the best of the best,” he said.
“You’re pitting your wits against some of the best players in the world, and it’s such a unique challenge – it’s only once every four years and it’s very special – and there’s a lot of history behind the Lions.
“I was lucky enough to play in three Lions tours. Albeit my fondest memory is obviously 1997 when we beat South Africa and to be the second Lions tour to win a tour series in South Africa was a great feeling, and I’ve got memories and friends that you keep for the rest of your life.
“Sadly my other two Lions tours were concluded a little bit early through injury in Australia and New Zealand so I don’t have quite as fond memories of those two – but I had great experiences.”
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