The British and Irish Lions go into Saturday’s all-or-nothing second Test against New Zealand knowing they must win the tactical battle as well as the physical clashes to upset the world champions and keep the series alive. Already one down in the three-Test series, defeat in Wellington would condemn the Lions to yet another failure … Read more
Sam Warburton will captain the British and Irish Lions in Saturday’s must-win second Test against New Zealand in Wellington. The Welshman was one of three personnel changes coach Warren Gatland made Thursday to the starting side that lost the first Test 30-15, including calling in Johnny Sexton at fly-half. Gatland also picked Maro Itoje to … Read more
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen compared Saturday’s first Test with the British and Irish Lions to a World Cup final as they prepare to take on a touring party that has been growing in confidence and form. The Lions have shaken off a slow start to their tour to develop into a formidable force, but … Read more
The British and Irish Lions gained a confidence-boosting win as their power told against the Maori All Blacks in wet conditions in Rotorua. Leigh Halfpenny – who landed 20 points in all – kicked them into a 15-10 half-time lead, with Liam Messam crossing for the hosts’ try. The Lions forwards dominated the second half … Read more
Owen Farrell insisted Saracens could be “more clinical” after the title-holders beat Munster 26-10 in a commanding European Champions Cup semi-final win in Dublin on Saturday. Second-half tries from Mako Vunipola and replacement back Chris Wyles capped a brilliant defensive effort, with England ace Farrell scoring the London club’s remaining 16 points in a flawless … Read more