The British & Irish Lions this evening expressed their support for the Youngs family following the announcement that Ben has withdrawn from the squad for family reasons.

The wife of Ben’s brother Tom has been battling cancer for three years and the family has now received the news that the illness is terminal.



Ben has spoken with Head Coach Warren Gatland, who said: “We fully understand and respect Ben’s decision to stay at home.

"Family comes first and I know from having toured with Tom and Ben in 2013 how close they are. This is a difficult and important time for them and we send Ben, Tom and their family our heartfelt thoughts.”



Scotland and Gloucester Rugby scrum-half Greig Laidlaw will join the Tour party.