As well as some incredible, intense rugby in the opening two games of the three match series, the games in Durban and Pretoria have also witnessed plenty of niggle and back chat.

But at the meeting between the two coaching teams and this weekend’s referee, the two teams were told in no uncertain terms they can expect short shrift from the officials if there is any repeat of the pushing and shoving after the whistle.

“The referees have told us they won’t tolerate any off the ball incidents or verbals that have definitely been evident in the first two games,” explained Lions forwards coach Warren Gatland.

“We said after the first match we wouldn’t take any after the ball incidents in terms of pushing or verbals. There was great intensity last week, but in terms of that it was not a good advertisement for rugby and how it should be played.

“I am pleased the referees are going to take a hard line on this. We want hard and physical rugby, but we don’t need a game with all the off-the-ball incidents.”