British and Irish Lions to play Crusaders and Blues in NZ tour

The British and Irish Lions face a difficult start to their tour of New Zealand with leading All Blacks set to be released to soften up the visitors through the Crusaders and Blues.

Any hopes the Lions had of easing into their 10‑match tour will be dashed by news that Kieran Read, Owen Franks, Israel Dagg, Sonny Bill Williams, Jerome Kaino, Charlie Faumuina and others will line up for their respective Super Rugby teams in early June.

The Lions open their anticipated tour, New Zealand's first since 2005, against the provincial barbarians on June 3. Four days later they can expect a battering from a stacked Blues side at Eden Park, with up to 11 All Blacks to feature.

The Crusaders, who boast 12 All Blacks of their own, are next up in Christchurch on June 10.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen confirmed no one in contention for first test selection would be stopped from playing for the Blues and the Crusaders.

Source: Stuff.co