Ireland flanker Peter O’Mahony will captain the British and Irish Lions in the first test against New Zealand on Saturday, assuming the leadership from tour captain Sam Warburton who starts on the bench.
England’s Owen Farrell has recovered from a leg injury to start at fly-half in the team named on Thursday by head coach Warren Gatland.
Gatland produced a number of surprises, naming Liam Williams at fullback ahead of Leigh Halfpenny and Wales veteran Alun Wyn Jones at lock ahead of Maro Itoje.
Advertisement
Elliot Daly played his way into the team on the left wing with strong performances in midweek matches while New Zealand-born Ben Te’o will start at inside centre.
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen also sprung surprises of his own, naming Rieko Ioane to make his first test start on the left wing in place of Julian Savea.
British and Irish Lions captain Sam Warburton has missed out on selection for the first test. Photo: AP
Advertisement
Ioane has won his two previous test caps off the bench.
