B&I Lions begin preparations for 2017

The Tour will be one of the biggest events in the 2017 sporting calendar in both Northern and Southern Hemispheres. New Zealand Rugby marked one year to go at a function in Auckland on Friday.

Spencer, who toured New Zealand as a player with the legendary 1971 team, will be looking at various facilities in the country, which includes gyms, training grounds and hotels for the touring team. 

"When I think about one year to go my overriding emotion is one of excitement," Spencer told lionsrugby.com.

"But also it would be foolish to say I am not nervous. I am fully aware that this is a huge challenge – to play the All Blacks on their home surface.

"It is a big undertaking for us because the Lions is bigger than ever – particularly in New Zealand where Rugby Union is the number one sport. 

"We are going to play two Tests against New Zealand at Eden Park, where they haven't lost since 1994, and one in Wellington, so we are fully aware of the task and that is why we are preparing early and preparing thoroughly.

"We take the view that the bigger the challenge, the bigger the opportunity for the coaches, the players and the management."

Spencer added: "We will be looking at hotels, gyms, training venues with the aim of making everything as seamless as possible. We want to give the players the best facilities to get them in peak condition and give them the best opportunity to win the games."

"We will be meeting with the New Zealand Rugby Union as well because to all intents and purposes this is a joint venture and we want to co-operate in terms of expanding the game and making sure the tour has a positive impact off the field."

Source: lionsrugby.com