The British and Irish Lions plan to tour South Africa this summer after rejecting contingency options of staging the matches elsewhere.
The possibility of switching the tour to Britain and Ireland or hosting it in Australia had been raised as the Covid pandemic continues to hamper sport.
However, the Lions intend to press ahead with the original itinerary.
“The preferred position has always been to play in South Africa, ” said Rugby Football Union boss Bill Sweeney.
“We’re running out of time for a UK option, frankly. The days are ticking by.
“We’re in a critical dialogue to confirm what they’re capable of doing around the Lions going to South Africa.”
More to follow.
