The dust has settled on Warren Gatland’s Lions squad announcement last week, but there are still grievances amongst fans over the selection. Perhaps the most surprising exclusion from the squad was that of Joe Launchbury. The England international lock was, for many, the standout player of the Six Nations, but was deemed surplus to requirements.
That left Wasps with just one representative, in Elliot Daly.
Speaking to the Telegraph about his selection, the versatile back revealed his mixed emotions, as Launchbury missed out. The pair were sat beside each other at the Wasps camp, tuning in on a smartphone. The second row put disappointment to one side to congratulate his teammate.
“I think he [Launchbury] was probably more overjoyed for me.
“He congratulated me as soon as my name was announced. I was hoping his name would be announced as well but unfortunately it wasn’t. I was gutted for him.
“Of course he was disappointed. He was gutted when it was announced and he was not involved but he is one of those guys who takes everything in his stride. He took it really well, moved on and congratulated me because he is a great guy.”
However, both Daly and Launchbury must now put their emotions to one side, as they look ahead to Wasps’ season run-in. Dai Young’s side are top of the table, but face a tricky end to the season as they bid to secure a home semi-final. They travel to the Stoop to take on Harlequins before facing Saracens in their final game.
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Read More About: elliot daly, joe launchbury, Lions, Rugby, Wasps
