1997 Lions The Events Room

The 1997 British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa was a milestone in rugby union history.  The future of the Lions was in question with onset of professionalism and the lack of success.  The Lions turned to Sir Ian McGeechan, a brilliant coach and passionate Lion who had toured in both 1974 and 1977. … Read More

British and Irish Lions 1997 Wooden Spoon

In 1997, the British and Irish Lions toured South Africa, the first after the end of apartheid.  The team was coached by Ian McGeechan and captained by England legend Martin Johnson. The Springboks had won the 1995 Rugby Union World Cup and, as with all Lions tours, there was great excitement and anticipation.  The Lions… Read More