The British and Irish Lions have hit back at accusations that they have taken their foot off the gas by allowing players to go bungy jumping and drink alcohol in Queenstown just four days before the decisive third test against the All Blacks.
The only edict imposed for the three-dayvisit to New Zealand's adrenalin-fuelled capital was that there was to be no skiing, with three players - Taulupe Faletau, George Kruis, and Jack Nowell - posting pictures of themselves leaping off the 134m high Nevis bungy jump only 96 hours before arguably the biggest game of their lives.
It was at the same bungy jump that Nick Easter is thought to have injured his back during the 2011 World Cup, with England being forced to bring in Thomas Waldrom as cover.
Other members of the Lions squad took part in helicopter rides and jet boat trips, with All Blacks expressing surprise at the preparation for Saturday's third test at Eden Park.
"I'd rather be training, to be honest," All Blacks flanker Jerome Kaino said. "Although jet boating in Queenstown does sound pretty good. I'm sure they've thrown some training in there somewhere, but hey, if that's what they think will get the best out of their players, then good on them."
The Lions, though, were adamant there was no issue with the way players were spending their time off, with individuals drinking alcohol with the permission of management.
"We've not needed to put anything like that [alcohol ban] on the players," said Paul Stridgeon, head of strength and conditioning. "It's great to have the boys refreshed."
