Tensions bound to surface with arrival of test series

The arrival of the test series will not only see tensions rising on the field, the tourists are about to develop a potentially damaging case of multiple personality.

On one side will be Sir Clive and his test squad, who will be resting up in the expensive hotels without being required to venture far from the major centres. On the other will be the dirt trackers, those like deflated Welshmen Gavin Henson and Michael Owen.

While Jonny Wilkinson and company spend today visualising their opponents, Henson's second XV have only the glamour of Manawatu and Palmerston North to look forward too. The big question will be how this separation will impact on the remainder of their stay.

With all due respect to the famous green and white hoops, Manawatu should be the Lions' weakest opponent, but Auckland must fancy their chances of another international scalp.

Any division may be starkest in the stands where, despite the hype about the Barmy Army, the vast bulk of the travelling fans are clearly Irish and Welsh.

Anger is already emerging over the perception that Sir Clive is favouring his old squaddies, despite statements that Wales' Six Nations form demanded high representation.