Instead the Somoan-born giant was forced into an apology.
Apologies for messing around on Lions photo. No offence intended. Great day at Downing Street. Thanks to Prime Minister for hosting us.
— ManuSamoa Tuilagi (@Manutuilagi) September 16, 2013
Cameron took his sweet time inviting the Australia-beating side around to his place for a cuppa after their 2-1 win in June and July.
The shot was a damn sight more of a hit on social media than it would have been without Tuilagi’s gentle prank and was trending overnight on Twitter.
His England and Leicester Tigers teammate Ben Youngs was all for it. “The man@Manutuilagi just couldn’t stop himself”
Youngs appears to have designs on higher honours than England and the Lions.
Anyways this is the main photo of the day.. pic.twitter.com/SiyhBFzsPA
— Ben Youngs (@benyoungs09) September 16, 2013
England fly-half Freddie Burns rated Tuilagi’s bottle when posting the original pic to cause the stir. “Great bottle from Manu Tuilagi! Haha. #chief.”
But he was also directed back to the official line today.
Was not condoning Manu’s actions in my tweet yesterday. Was just my immediate reaction to seeing the picture and was a poor tweet on my part
— Freddie Burns (@FreddieBurns) September 17, 2013
The Prime Minister was previously presented with Ireland fly-half Jonny Sexton’s jersey (number 10).
Cameron said his son Arthur will especially be excited about the jersey, as he was inspired to take up rugby following the Lions’ win.
“It’s a huge honour,” Cameron said. “My son, just because of you guys, has just started tag rugby. He will be so excited about this jersey.”
Images via Getty
