Race to full-health for North

 

The giant wing, who was named in the starting line-up for the showdown in Durban, is currently struggling with a virus.

 

The 22-year-old was withdrawn from the squad for the game against the Eastern Province Kings on Tuesday, and returned to Durban from Port Elizabeth on a separate flight to the rest of his team-mates in order to stop his illness spreading.

 

Gatland had initially been optimistic the British & Irish Lions star would be fit to face the Boks, but admits he is now facing a race against time.

 

"George is still struggling," the coach said.

 

"He felt a bit nauseous on Tuesday and he has had a bit of a stomach upset, so he has been in his room and had food taken up to him.

 

"He is making slow progress.

 

"He would be a big loss, but if he misses out it is someone else's opportunity."

 

Ospreys tight-head Adam Jones makes his 100th Test appearance — he has five caps for the Lions — and Scarlets flanker Aaron Shingler is entrusted with the No.7 shirt in the absence of injured Lions Sam Warburton and Justin Tipuric.

 

The uncapped duo of Matthew Morgan and Gareth Davies have been named among the replacements.