Sam Cane

The style of rugby is going to suit Same Cane. The Lions are going to be direct and confrontational and that will bring Cane’s defence into play.

The man likes tackling and he’s good at it. He’ll also enjoy the chance to steal possession, and the chances are high that he’ll pinch a few key turnovers at crucial times. Why are the chances high?

Because Cane is quicker than most of the loose forwards the Lions are bringing. If the Lions have an obvious weakness in their forwards, it is the lumbering nature of their back row. They have plenty of big men, but where is the pace?

And finally, Cane will relish the chance to show the support lines he runs when the All Blacks utilise their wide game. He’s happy to do rough and tumble, but Cane’s great strength is his aerobic capacity to get on the shoulder of outside backs and link the play. SAM CANE