The Year Of The Tiger?

A “Celtic Tigers” side representing Scotland, Ireland and Wales to compete the leading Test nations will be among the ideas discussed at the first full Celtic League clubs’ meeting in Dublin today.

Tournament director David Jordan is keen to promote the Celtic League brand and, in the wake of the huge attention focussed on this week’s announcement of the British and Irish Lions squad, he believes he has spotted the perfect opportunity.

Jordan, formally chief executive of Glasgow Rugby, told Scotland’s Herald newspaper: “It is the sort of thing we should be looking at. It is how I’d like to see Celtic rugby develop.”

While there is no prospect even in the medium term of a touring side, Jordan believes the idea could be tested when the All Blacks make their European trip in the autumn.

New Zealand are already committed to playing each of the home unions but it is hoped they can be tempted into playing a fifth Test.

“If Celtic Rugby can develop as a brand then the possibilities are endless,” Jordan added.

“For example, you just have to look at the number of Lions jerseys that have been, and will be, sold this year.”