British and Irish Lions wing George North has apologised and says he feels “horrendous” for a gesture he made while scoring a try against Australia.
The 21-year-old, who will play for Saints next seasaon after signing from Scarlets, pointed at the Wallabies’ Will Genia just before scoring in the 23-21 victory in the first of the three-Test series.
North was criticised for the signal and admits he regrets his actions.
“I got caught up in the emotion of the try. Looking back, I feel horrendous for doing it now,” he told the BBC.
North marked his Lions debut in the Brisbane win with a brilliant individual try, beating three players during a 60-metre run.
But he revealed he had spoken to tour manager Andy Irvine about the incident.
“Rugby’s a gentleman’s game and that shouldn’t be involved in the game,” he said. “Andy said that to me and I knew it as soon as I’d done it.
“It’s very difficult to explain your emotions when you’ve scored a try.
“I know it was out of line with sportsmanship and rugby and feel terrible for that.
“I’ve had a lot of stick from the boys for doing that and am pretty sure it will go on for a while longer.”
