Catt's pain

Veteran England midfielder Mike Catt's hopes of making the Lions tour appear to be all but dead.

Despite England's midfield injury crisis, the London Irish star has failed to make coach Andy Robinson's Six Nations squad of 30. Catt, who toured with the Lions in both 1997 and 2001, was hoping for a third trip.

To do that he needs to be involved in this year's Six Nations.

"It's a bit disappointing," Catt said. "I'd really like to be involved but it's up to Robbo. I think they need experience - even if it's only off the bench. Robbo said he'd be watching me at London Irish, but I'm not sure he has."

Catt is now hoping Lions coach Clive Woodward is prepared to select him on club form.

- HERALD ON SUNDAY