All-Blacks legend can still hear the Lions roar; RUGBY UNION.

Byline: UNCANBECH

NEW ZEALAND great Sean Fitzpatrick has entered the debate over the future of the British and Irish Lions by claiming their tours should be expanded not abandoned.

It is 12 years since the Lions won a series, with their recent victory over South Africa in the final Test ending a credibilitydamaging run of seven successive defeats.

The 28-9 triumph in Johannesburg concluded an epic series that made for gripping viewing, yet questions persist over the relevance of the Lions in the professional era.

Fitzpatrick, who led the All Blacks to victory against the elite of British and Irish rugby in 1993, believes they remain a major force.

"The Lions are probably the most powerful brand in world rugby. Without question they have a future," said Fitzpatrick'.

"Winning that third Test against South Africa was paramount but even had they lost they'd still be a viable brand.

"They're one of the greatest teams to play against.

"They play sides that are together year-in yearout while they come together every four years, so maybe they need to look at their preparation going into a tour.

"But even if you just look at them in terms of being a money-making brand, they're phenomenal."

The Lions' agonising defeat in the second Test was overshadowed by Schalk Burger's escape with a yellow card for eyegouging, an offence that later resulted in an eightweek ban.

Widespread condemnation of the brevity of his suspension followed and Fitzpatrick believes the International Rugby Board must rid the game of its most x-rated offence.

"It was totally out of character but that sort of incident needs to be totally rubbed out of the game," he said. "It's totally unacceptable. By not increasing the ban the IRB have missed an opportunity."