Itoje: ‘I’m a bit unsatisfied’

British and Irish Lions lock Maro Itoje has expressed his dissatisfaction after the series with the All Blacks ended in a draw.

Itoje was named on the bench for the first Test but made himself indispensable to Lions coach Warren Gatland by being arguably the Lions’ best player in the second and third Tests along with Jonathan Davies.

It is clear from his post-series reflection that the 22-year-old Saracens forward and 2016 European Rugby player of the year holds high expectations of himself and his side. “We came here with hopes and intentions of winning and we didn’t quite do that. I don’t think we played our perfect game and we didn’t play how we wanted to. I’m a bit unsatisfied.

“New Zealand are a top team though and we went toe-to-toe. We didn’t get the win but we will crack on.”

It remained a valiant effort from the tourists, who were up against the world number one team that last lost at Eden Park in 1994 and last suffered back-to-back Test defeats 19 years ago. “There were areas of the game like the lineout that could have worked out smoother and we could been a tad more physical,” Itoje added.

“We had an opportunity at the end to win but unfortunately the ball didn’t stick in our hands. We had lots of moments to win but I’m incredibly proud and honoured to be part of this team.

“It’s been some of the best six or seven weeks in my life and to wear this red jersey is a dream come true.”