The big bang theory

I'm back. Various reasons for an absence in posting, but no better topic to come back to than that of a fresh announcement of the 2009 British lions squad. 37 men will descend to South African shores in June, in eager anticipation of the 1st test on 20th June.

So, what of the squad? Ian McGeechan's vision has been clearly defined by two key areas. The intended game plan, and the picking on form, not reputation. Something that historical lions tours would certainly plead guilty too.

Firstly the game plan is clear. From the talismanic giant Paul O'Connell who will lead the squad, preferred in favor to his compatriot Brian O'Driscoll. Perhaps Geech wants an oaf; a hard nosed leader over the softly spoken, and possibly haunted, O'Driscoll. After all, his 2005 experience is well documented.

The selection oozes power, strength and brutality. Simon Shaw, Joe Worsley, Stephen Ferris and Alan Quinlan will provide the literal ballast upfront to take on the likes of Spiers and Burger running at full tilt. The omission of messieurs Croft and Armitage highlight the downgrading of fluid running flair over the power needed to overcome to Boks. This will be some seismic battle.

I'm also surprised, but not dissatisfied, with the omission of some 'bankers' including Jones, Henson, Hook, Haskell et al. Players who had a non-descript 6 nations have had their poor form well and truly brought to the floor.

It’s certainly an interesting selection. With only 2 full backs, and more importantly 2 fly halves, the impetus is clear. Go to South Africa. Smash. Grab. Get on the plane home. I'm not predicting this will be pretty, but it will certainly be explosive.

Watch out Andrew!

Andrew Sheridan is widely regarded as the strongest man in world rugby. A qualified builder, and former body builder; he is not a man to be messed with. A goon in the truest sense, yet softly spoken with gentle mannerisms.

But how the mighty can fall. Literally.

Sheridan has this season been a shadow of the man who single handedly destroyed the Australia team in the 2007 world cup. His England team mate, Julian White, compounded this misery further by well and truly flooring him with a single blow during Saturday's sterling win for Leicester over Sale. Julian received a red card for his troubles, to which he is no stranger. But Mr Sheridan is not your usual bully boy victim. White could well have been on the flight to South Africa this summer but if he receives a lengthy ban, this could jeopardise his quest.

On the subject of the Lions, Josh Lewsey threw his hat in the ring for Lions selection, verbally rather than through physical endeavor. A prolific try scorer in his prime, Lewsey this week announced his retirement from the game altogether but made clear his intention to make it 3 consecutive lions tours. However, the mouth is not being matched by his performance. Luckily, I believe McGeechan will pick on form and touring heritage. Therefore, in my eyes Josh will be touring.

A passionate English man who always gave 100%. Possibly providing one of the greatest ever covering tackles that Twickenham has ever seen. A great ambassador of the game, and it certainly won't be the last we hear from him.