At RUCK.co.uk, we’ve dug through the history books to bring you the FIVE greatest players who somehow never received the iconic Lions call-up. Here’s who we think missed out:
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1. Mike Tindall (England)1. Mike Tindall (England)
Widely regarded as one of England’s most reliable and consistent performers of his era, Mike Tindall was an integral part of the 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning squad. Despite a career that occasionally stuttered due to injuries, he was never picked for a Lions tour.
Fun Fact: Tindall was named a replacement for the Barbarians during their 2013 tour against the British & Irish Lions in Australia – a strange irony for such an accomplished player.
2. Peter Stringer (Ireland)
Making his Ireland debut in 2000, Peter Stringer became a fan favourite, racking up 98 caps and starring in multiple Six Nations-winning campaigns. A vital cog in the Irish machine, Stringer was also a key figure in the 2003 and 2007 Rugby World Cups.
Did You Know? It remains a mystery why Clive Woodward opted not to select Stringer for the 2005 Lions tour, especially with four scrum-halves (Dwayne Peel, Chris Cusiter, Gareth Cooper, and Matt Dawson) already in the mix.
3. Jonathan Davies (Wales)
Before his move to rugby league, Jonathan Davies was one of Wales’ best-ever talents, and his switch to league is the reason he never played for the Lions. Had he stayed in union, Davies would have been a lock for the 1989 and 1993 tours.
4. Phil de Glanville (England)
Phil de Glanville enjoyed a solid decade-long international career for England, earning 38 caps. A lethal centre who consistently brought his A-game, de Glanville’s exclusion from both the 1993 and 1997 Lions tours baffled many. Despite his top form, he never got the call-up.
5. Chris Paterson (Scotland)
Chris Paterson was a Scottish stalwart for over a decade, winning 109 caps and becoming one of rugby’s most prolific points scorers. With the 2001, 2005, and 2009 Lions tours all falling during his impressive career, many fans were left stunned when Paterson’s name was never included in the squad.
6. Jonny May (England)
One of England’s most electric wings of the modern era, Jonny May has dazzled fans with his blistering pace and try-scoring ability. Despite his impressive international record and crucial performances for England, May has yet to be selected for a Lions tour, leaving many questioning how such a dynamic talent hasn’t made the cut.
Fun Fact: May’s impressive try-scoring feats for England have consistently been among the best in the world, but he has still failed to break into the Lions squad.
7. George Ford (England)
A playmaking maestro, George Ford has been the heart of England’s attack for years. Known for his tactical kicking and precision with ball in hand, Ford has been a standout for club and country. His exclusion from Lions tours, especially in 2017 and 2021, has left many wondering how such a skillful fly-half didn’t get the nod.
Did You Know? Despite leading England to Six Nations glory and playing key roles in several high-profile matches, Ford has never been called up to represent the Lions.
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Can you name the entire British & Irish Lions squad from their tour of New Zealand in 2005?
The British & Irish Lions’ tour of New Zealand in 2005 remains one of the most talked-about campaigns in rugby history.
Despite facing a formidable All Blacks side, the squad was packed with legendary talent representing England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
From unforgettable tries to moments of controversy, this tour had it all—and it’s time to see just how much you remember!
Can you recall every player who pulled on the famous red jersey during that iconic tour? Dive into this quiz to test your Lions knowledge and relive a piece of rugby history!
