Tait's career in the balance
January 6, 2000

Veteran British Lions centre Alan Tait is sweating on a scan on a troublesome back injury which is threatening to end his illustrious career.

Tait misses out on Edinburgh Reivers' vital Heineken Cup clash with Neath at Myreside tomorrow because of the on going problem which plagued him throughout the World Cup.

He knows that unless a solution is found his playing days could be at an end. However, Reivers coach Ian Rankin today dismissed rumours that the Scottish super district were about to cancel Tait's contract.

"We have not considered that," said Rankin. "No decision will be made on Alan's future until we have received the specialist's report.

"He had his back X-rayed and scanned. He's been suffering from this for a long time and we are anxious to find a solution."

Tait's absence is one of four changes from the Reivers side which was heavily beaten by Northampton in the Heineken Cup three weeks ago. Full-back Derrick Lee injured a shoulder in the recent A international against Holland, so Stuart Lang takes over.

Cammie Murray switches into the centre berth vacated by Tait with Kenny Milligan taking over on the wing.

Andy Lucking comes in for another shoulder injury victim Nathan Hines at lock, while Marcus Di Rollo and Gordon Ross are called on to the replacements' bench.

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