Jamie Roberts is desperate to be part of next summer's Lions tour to New Zealand
Wednesday 5 October 2016 23:35, UK
Wales centre Jamie Roberts is desperate to be part of next summer’s Lions tour of New Zealand but admits beating the All Blacks in their own back yard is the hardest task in rugby union.
The Harlequins battering-ram already has two Lions tours under his belt and will hope to play his way into next summer's squad that will head to New Zealand.
Roberts tasted series victory in Australia in 2013 but he says defeating the All Blacks would be even sweeter.
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Roberts told Sky Sports News HQ: "It is a huge goal to go and win a Lions series. Having experienced a losing one [in South Africa] and winning one [in Australia], you appreciate how difficult it is to do.
"The emotions of that changing room in Sydney after that third Test - it was quite special. You really appreciate how much effort and work goes into winning a series.
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"New Zealand next summer will be no different. It is probably the biggest test in world rugby to go and beat the All Blacks in New Zealand.
"The Lions have a huge challenge to face next year."
The Lions will endure a punishing 10-match schedule in New Zealand next summer, with the first tour match on June 3, just a week after the Aviva Premiership final.
However, Roberts believes every player in the mix to tour next summer will set aside any complaints about a gruelling season in order to chase a starting Test jersey with the Lions.
"As much as people talk about cramming 10 games into five or six weeks, it's that special, the Lions, and we're not talking about something that happens every season," said Roberts.
"It's an extremely special and privileged place to be. And regardless of how much your body's hurting after a long and tough season, you're ready.
"You're ready to really put your body on the line.
"Players from the host nations, they only get the chance to play the Lions every 12 years. So it's very easy to appreciate too just how big it is for them as well.
"They know playing against the Lions is a huge privilege as well, so long, long may it continue."
