Warrenball? This Lions squad is full of genuine rugby quality

hugely physical battle. But I think only two of them are probably not what you would call natural ball-carriers.

“Pretty much everyone can carry and offload and pass. The talent and versatility available to Gats is unquestioned; it’s probably the most talented Lions squad in a long time.

“What they need from the coaching staff, if they are to develop a more ‘dynamic’ game, is clear direction. As long as the coaching staff provide them with that they’ll do the rest. The tough itinerary, although a doubleedged sword, could put the Lions in great shape ahead of the first Test if well managed.

“There is no reason we cannot challenge the All Blacks. It’s not about trying to copy New Zealand. It is about developing a game plan which suits and reflects the character and qualities of the players. Lions rugby reflects that particular group, it is never associated with just one country.”

He continued: “I am excited just thinking about the tactical approach of which this group is capable. I believe the Lions will have parity at the set-piece and huge strength at the lineout.

“But it is the quality of their breakdown work which will determine whether or not they can be successful in New Zealand – the ability to read the breakdown in both attack and defence.

“Accuracy will be the biggest thing, knowing when to attack the ball and when to clear out the man. If the Lions can get good, consistent front-foot ball, they will be able to play two or three passes out from the breakdown.

“That opens up so many options and makes it so much more difficult to defend against. It almost means you can use kicking as a real weapon, not just as a means of getting rid of the ball. The All Blacks love nothing more than counter-attacking off poor kicking.

“A dynamic game does not mean trying to fling the ball from one side of the pitch to the other. It does not mean ‘loose’ rugby. Far from it.

“It means developing a solid game plan, being accurate, working in combinations – whether that’s three or four players working in a channel, kick-chase, the breakdown.

“Strong players will be needed in New Zealand, that’s a given. But clever players will beat the All Blacks.”