Corry leaves Canada to bolster Lions squad

The England forward Martin Corry was yesterday preparing to join the Lions squad in Australia. Corry has been withdrawn from England's starting line-up for today's second Test against Canada in Vancouver, and is preparing to fly Down Under.

The Leicester back-row will join the Lions after Scotland's Simon Taylor suffered a knee injury in yesterday's 116-10 victory over Western Australia. With Lawrence Dallaglio also on the sidelines for at least two weeks, Lions coach Graham Henry decided to take no chances and called for Corry immediately.

"Initially I was told I could be going on Sunday, then the plans suddenly changed," said Corry, the England vice-captain.

"In situations like these, you are in the hands of others. But I have spent all week focusing on Canada, gone through the whole build-up, then got to Friday and found I am not playing. The Lions is obviously the pinnacle of the sport and I am thrilled to have been chosen but I do feel a little bit empty because this England squad is really together."

Corry is due to arrive in Australia tomorrow and may play some role in the second game of the Lions tour against a Queensland Presidents XV in Townsville on Tuesday.