Billy Twelvetrees, the Worcester Warriors defence coach, has shed light on the unique allure of the British and Irish Lions tours, emphasizing that the experience is unparalleled unless you've been part of one. The 36-year-old, who has 22 England caps to his name, was called up as injury cover for the Lions' 2013 tour to Australia.

"You can watch it on TV and think you know, but all the players are the same," Twelvetrees told BBC Hereford & Worcester. "You're put into that room, there are world-class players everywhere, and there is a bit of imposter syndrome."

Twelvetrees, who came out of retirement to take on a player-coach role with Worcester, shared his thoughts ahead of the first Lions Test against the Wallabies. He expressed high hopes for former Worcester fly-half Fin Smith, who has joined Northampton Saints and was part of their 2024 Premiership title-winning side.

"I remember Willie Heinz coming here, and he said 'Bill, have a look at Fin Smith; he'll be the next England 10,' and that was four or five years ago now," Twelvetrees recalled. "When you're in the game, you know good players straight away. I am a big Fin Smith fan; I like the way he moves the ball and the way he operates."

Twelvetrees also highlighted the learning opportunities for young players like Smith on such tours. "I think it's so cool for him, and he'll learn so much being around world-class players and coaches. He'll have the social side of it in Australia, so what a cool thing to do as a young lad."

Smith's journey continued with Northampton Saints, where he played in their 28-20 European Champions Cup final defeat by Bordeaux in May. Twelvetrees' insights underscore the unique challenges and opportunities that Lions tours present, making them a cornerstone of rugby union.

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