The criticism will not bother Warren Gatland in the slightest but it has been widespread nonetheless after he seconded four Wales players and two Scots on the basis of geography. He has been accused of devaluing the Lions jersey in doing so and, moreover, he risks affecting the dynamic of the squad. You have to feel for Kristian Dacey for example, no doubt thrilled to be called up but constantly being told he is not there on merit. For Gatland to say those six will be leaving the squad after the last midweek game also feels unnecessary. All will be forgotten if the Lions win the series but it will be an obvious stick with which to beat Gatland if not. It must be remembered that if the schedule of this tour was not such a hindrance, he would most probably not have had to resort to this.
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