Sexton: Start with me and Farrell in first Test

LIONS No 10 Johnny Sexton claims he would be ready to partner Owen Farrell against the All Blacks — even though the pair have never started a game together.

If Farrell recovers from a thigh injury, head coach Warren Gatland could opt for a dual-playmaker midfield pairing to increase the Lions’ options in attack.

‘We played 50 minutes together against the Crusaders and things went well together,’ said Sexton (above). ‘At times he was at 10 and I was able to be his eyes and at other times he was able to be mine.

‘It’s great when you’ve got somebody at 12 who can help you out that much. When he was at 10, I tried to help him as well. I thought we played well together but it’s up to the coaches now.

‘We all want to play in the Test team but it’s a 23-man game as well. I’m sure there will be different combinations. If you know the game like Owen does, he’ll be a huge asset if he’s at 10 or 12.’

Sexton offered a composed display yesterday — utilising his forwards well — and will go in to the Test series on a high.