Vickery relishing final Lions Test

Fri, 03 Jul 15:37:20 2009

Phil Vickery revealed he is looking forward to Saturday's third Test against South Africa - his last appearance in a British and Irish Lions jersey - more than any other game of his career.

The Wasps and England prop has reclaimed the tight-head role from the injured Adam Jones and will lock horns again with Tendai 'The Beast' Mtawarira, the Springboks loose-head who gave him such a mauling in the Lions' first Test defeat.

"I am looking forward to this match more than any other match I have ever played in," said Vickery. "It is my last game in a Lions jersey and I want to make sure we go out on a high."

He added: "It is good to get back out there. Tomorrow is a clean sheet. It is unfortunate for Adam. I am gutted for him but I have been given an opportunity on Saturday and it is up to me to go out and perform.

"I am thoroughly looking forward to the challenge. It will be a great occasion, there are two teams who have nothing to lose, and hopefully we can sign the tour off in style and with a great deal of credit.

"I am very proud to be part of this group of people."

Vickery lasted only 44 minutes of the first Test as the Lions' tight-five failed to deal with an unexpected onslaught from the South African pack.

"You know you have had a bad game when your mum, your missus and your sister text you to say they still love you," Vickery joked.

Vickery watched from the bench as Jones succeeded in suring up the scrum during the second half in Durban before turning the tables on South Africa in the second Test.

 

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