Croft called up for Lions

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Lions coach Ian McGeechan telephoned Croft on Wednesday evening and also contacted England manager Martin Johnson.

Lions manager Gerald Davies said: "As a result of the appeal panel's decision, Ian and the management team have selected Tom Croft to replace Alan Quinlan."

The Lions management will make a decision on Thursday on a replacement for Leigh Halfpenny, who will remain in Cardiff for treatment on a thigh injury.

McGeechan sympathised with Quinlan, a surprise pick in the original squad, but insisted the rangier and more athletic Croft would offer a new dimension to the back row.

With just 11 caps Croft is still a Test rookie but the 23-year-old had a major impact in the latter stages of the RBS 6 Nations and was considered desperately unlucky to miss out on initial Lions selection.

"When you have a squad of 37 there are always going to be some close calls and Tom fit into that category," said McGeechan.

"I rang Tom and spoke to him and he said yes. I also put in a courtesy call to Martin Johnson before that just to let him know.

"Tom brings speed and his line-out ability to the squad. We can look at developing his role in the back row. His presence is another string to our bow.

"I'm very disappointed Quinlan will have to miss out on a Lions tour but Tom is a young buck with a lot of talent. He gives us something different."