A week after dispatching Japan 28-10 in Edinburgh, the British and Irish Lions clash with the Sigma Lions in the first of five games on South African soil before the Test series begins.
Here the PA news agency examines five talking points heading into Saturday’s match in Johannesburg.
Hogg at the helm
Alun the miracle man
Brains or brawn at 12?
Here is our team to face @LionsRugbyCo ?
? v ?#LionsRugby #CastleLionsSeries #LionsSA2021 pic.twitter.com/ZoEVxhTZuZ
— British & Irish Lions (@lionsofficial) July 1, 2021
As ever, it is the midfield selection that offers the most intriguing clues for second guessing Gatland’s plans for the Test series. Finn Russell makes his first appearance at fly-half and will form a 10-12 axis with Owen Farrell, who is clearly regarded as a strong option at inside centre despite travelling to South Africa as part of the three-strong contingent of ringmasters completed by Dan Biggar. Four years ago Gatland opted for power at inside centre in the first Test against the All Blacks, but a week later Ben Te’o made way for Farrell. The twin playmaker option is clearly still at the forefront of the Kiwi’s mind.
Back row balance
Ready to roar
It’s ?vs?!#LionsPride #LionsTour pic.twitter.com/4U1RckFc9M
— Lions (@LionsRugbyCo) July 1, 2021
On their previous five tours to South Africa, the Lions have won 95 per cent of their provincial games and given that Saturday’s opponents are the weakest opposition they will face over the coming weeks, they are overwhelming favourites to improve that record further. The Sigma Lions have lost only one player to South Africa’s squad – uncapped centre Wandisile Simelane – so are close to full strength, but they are still far weaker than the Japan side that was crushed at Murrayfield.
