Lions watch – Who’s in line to make starting XV?
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On June 24th, the British & Irish Lions will face off against New Zealand in the First Test of their tour, but who deserves to be in Warren Gatland’s starting XV?
We’ve taken a look at the team that we think Gatland should select based on ability and recent form:
Stuart Hogg
Stuart Hogg looks like he will be the only Scottish player in the XV.
George North
George North put on a show during the last Lions tour. Now he’s injury free, he’ll be hoping to make a similar impact.
Jonathan Davies
Owen Farrell
There is some talk that Farrell could miss out but the European Player of the Year deserves to start.
Anthony Watson
Jonathan Sexton
It’d be a huge shock if Jonny Sexton wasn’t in the line up.
Conor Murray
Conor Murray is the best scrum-half in the squad. He’ll be in the XV for sure.
Mako Vunipola
The Saracens star will be hoping to replicate his club success in New Zealand.
Rory Best
There is a lot of competition at hooker but Rory Best looks like he’ll get the nod.
Tadhg Furlong
Tadhg Furlong will start. No questions asked.
Maro Itoje
The Lions will need to be physical against the All Blacks and Maro Itoje is the man to bring that.
Alun Wyn Jones
Alun Wyn Jones is another who looks like a certain starter. It’d be a huge shock if he wasn’t in the XV.
CJ Stander
CJ Stander grew up playing Southern Hemisphere rugby. That could be a huge advantage for him and for the Lions.
Sam Warburton
The tour captain was given his role as he’s going to be in the team. Easy decision.
Billy Vunipola
No player has shorter odds to start with the bcookies than Billy Vunipola. He looks to be a nailed on starter.