Simon Zebo Called up to Lions Squad
Keith Fitzpatrick
Ireland and Munster winger Simon Zebo has been called up to the British & Irish Lions squad to replace the injured Tommy Bowe.
Bowe suffered suffered a broken hand during the Lions' 22-12 victory over the Queensland Reds yesterday morning, and Zebo received the call up shortly after as he helped Ireland to a 15-12 win over the US Eagles in Houston yesterday. Zebo couldn't hide his elation at the call up:
"I'm absolutely over the moon. It's the best news I could have ever dreamed of. As a professional Irish rugby player the ultimate goal is to be a British & Irish Lion. Hopefully I'll get the chance to do that if I get my cap. That is something I have to work towards now."
A statement from the Lions camp confirmed Zebo's call up, and reiterated that Tommy Bowe's progress as he rehabilitates his broken hand will continue to be monitored.
"Ireland's Simon Zebo will join the British and Irish Lions as cover for Tommy Bowe. Zebo will fly from Houston, Texas on Sunday evening and arrive in Sydney on Tuesday morning, meeting up with the squad in Newcastle ahead of the game against Combined Country.
"Bowe underwent surgery this morning to stabilise a bone fracture in his hand and his condition will be assessed over the next few days."