Lowdown on the XV for first Test

Full-back Liam Williams Age 26, Caps 43

Williams had a brilliant tour for Wales in New Zealand last year. He is comfortable in these conditions and anywhere across the back three and is super-safe under the high ball. Had a black mark against his name with that yellow card against the Blues, but was brilliant against the Chiefs.

Left wing Elliot Daly Age 24, Caps 13

He did everything he could have to get into the starting XV and has been rewarded. He looks quick with ball in hand, sharp in defence and he also has that mighty kick. Has got a cannon of a boot.

Hooker Jamie George Age 26, Caps 17

Came on this tour with most people considering him to be third choice, but did not take long to impress Warren Gatland on the training field. Linked up brilliantly with club team-mate George Kruis at the line-out in the Crusaders game, and he will have another Saracen alongside him in Mako Vunipola.

Blindside flanker Peter O’mahony Capt, Age 27, Caps 40

Incredible to think he was not due to play against England in the Six Nations. But Jamie Heaslip pulled out 20 minutes before the game and O’mahony put in a great display to earn his tour place. Has been a monster since landing in New Zealand. His leadership and his toughness demanded selection.

Right wing Anthony Watson Age 23, Caps 26

The coaching staff have been super-impressed with this lad and he has taken his chances on the field. He took his try very well against the Barbarians. The fastest winger available.

Fly-half Owen Farrell Age 25, Caps 53

There was some doubt whether Farrell would be fit after his quad strain, but when fully fit he is a selection certainty and there was no question about him starting at No 10. He brings aggression and stability, can pull the strings, will go hunting for tackles and leads the defensive line.

Tighthead prop Tadhg Furlong Age 24, Caps 16

Probably forwards coach Graham Rowntree’s first selection. The scrum penalties the Lions have won so far, and the penalty try against Maori, had his fingerprints all over them.

Openside flanker Sean O’brien Age 30, Caps 51

Gatland remembers O’brien’s power well from 2013. He has had a few injury blips in between tours, but has come back and looks absolutely ferocious. Walking around town and warming up on the pitch he looks like a tank. A huge ball-carrier and destructive at the breakdown.