England won't start player row

England have given the Lions a guarantee that there will be no repeat of the diplomatic row which revolved around Mike Catt four years ago.

When the two last went on simultaneous tours, Lions manager Fran Cotton was at loggerheads with England coach Jack Rowell, who initially refused to grant Catt an immediate release in Argentina to join the Lions in South Africa after Paul Grayson had become a casualty.

Clive Woodward, preparing to take a squad of 40 to North America later this month, has stressed that no obstacles will be put in the way of any English reinforcements required to join the 10-match tour of Australia.

'If the Lions require anyone, he will be put on the first available plane to Australia,' said Woodward.