Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Sam is set to face-off in opener
SAM WARBURTON has his Lions squad believing they can take the prized scalp of New Zealand.
The Wales forward last night won his race to be fit to captain the tourists in their opener against the New Zealand Provincial Barbarians on Saturday.
And Taulupe Faletau, who has reached a World Cup semi-final and won a Lions series alongside Warburton, says it is a significant turn of events.
“Within the squad, we believe we have a good team capable of winning out here,” said Faletau. “Whether it be warm-up games or the series, we really do believe that.
“Sam is our captain and brings with him expectations which he puts on to the team. So, to have him on the field is great for us. Everybody’s expectation now is to do a good job.
“Sam is always calm, always good, always leading by example.”
Johnny Sexton has been handed an early chance to nail down his Test credentials.
Sexton is one of three Irishmen named in the first Lions team for Saturday’s opener.
His half-back partner is Greig Laidlaw, who was drafted into the squad after Ben Youngs withdrew for family reasons.
“I’m looking forward to seeing what Greig can do alongside Johnny Sexton, who both are experienced half-backs,” said Lions head coach Warren Gatland.
Owen Farrell, who is Sexton’s main rival for the no 10 jersey, is on the bench.
Ulster duo Rory Best and Iain Henderson, who have been training with Warren Gatland’s squad since the start of the build-up, are named in the pack.
Tadhg Furlong and Jared Payne have been named on the bench.