Determined CJ Stander gunning for Lions spot

CJ Stander has expressed his determination to gun down a spot in coach Warren Gatland's squad for the British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand in 2017.

The South African-born back-row has announced his bid for the tour to begin on Saturday during the Pro12 clash against Edinburgh.

"When I was a youngster I saw these teams coming to South Africa and you think that's the ultimate. It's class to get in there," he said. "When I arrived here it wasn't really in my mind but then everyone started talking about it and it can happen, so it's a goal. It depends how good I can perform.

"I always set goals. Firstly, I just wanted to get back through pre-season and get all the niggles gone. Then I started thinking about the next goals; performing for Munster week in, week out, getting used to the pace.

"Then at international level, getting onto to that plane to go to Chicago and playing New Zealand. They're on a good streak now so that will be some match to be involved in."

Munster are still searching for the first home win of the season when they welcome Edinburgh to Thomond Park this Saturday.