Praise for Steeno ahead of testimonial game
Former Gloucester powerhouse Junior Paramore has said he cannot understand why Exeter Chiefs legend Gareth Steenson hasn’t been picked for his national side.
Paramore has been named amongst a Classic Lions side that will take on a Chiefs select XV at Sandy Park on August 12.
And he was full of praise for the Exeter fly-half.
He said: “As a rugby player you always set goals to achieve something but to be the number one choice for such a long period of time tells you everything you need to know about the effort Gareth puts in on and off the field.
“And to win the league with his club is a phenomenal achievement.”
Paramore said he was amazed Steeno’s consistent performance for his team had not caught the eye of the Ireland selectors.
“I’m amazed he has never had a call up for Ireland. I see him play an think oh wow, surely his national team coaches are watching some of these games and saying to themselves ‘we’re missing something here’. It’s a shame that he’s never been given the nod."
Paramore said he was looking forward to pulling on the Lions jersey for the first time.
“It’s going to be an exciting moment however, what I’m looking forward to most is paying my part in celebrating such a wonderful career,” he said.
Among the former Chiefs players who have agreed to turn out on the day are Richie Baxter, Brett Sturgess, Tommy Hayes and Chris ‘Budgie’ Budgen.
Meanwhile, England and Gloucester legend Mike Tindall has been confirmed in the Lions squad as have Ceri Sweeney and Dafydd James.
Gareth said he couldn’t wait to be reunited with his former team-mates.
“It is going to be a very special, and emotional, day,” he said.
“These guys helped to get the Chiefs to where they are today and it will be an honour for me, and the club, to welcome them back.
“I’m also flattered that the Classic Lions have agreed to be our opposition. We floated the idea at our first testimonial committee meeting just a few weeks ago and now it is a reality. I can’t wait!”
Tickets are available now via the Exeter Chiefs website https://ticketing2.exeterchiefs.co.uk/match-tickets.aspx
