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The Lions Tour - Can the Lions protect their pride away from home? Special report
on a suggested Lions starting 15 This Lions tour is surronded by speculation about recent poor performances, what should the starting 15 look like to take on the Kiwi teams down South? Here's a look at the players I think should be starting. 15. Josh Lewsey Full Back Clive Woodward has the luxury of 4 players that are highly adept at playing fullback or wing. My choice however is Josh Lewsey. He runs good strong traditional lines and is more secure under the high ball than Jason Robinson. Geordan Murphy is a top contender to break into this back three, however his poor form in the game against Argentina and the strong competition will relegate him to the bench. Right Wing Physically very strong and adept at covering full back and centre, my pick goes to the Welshman Gareth Thomas. The highest try scored in Welsh rugby history, he is a consistent performer who's running and defensive skills will be much needed against what is likely to be a highly potent NZ back line Outside Centre: If he's fit, he's in. Brian O'Driscoll has been made captain for two reasons. The first is that he genuinely has world class leadership skills. The second however is that he's one of the very few players that was always going to be guaranteed a test slot. Probably one of the most dangerous runners in world rugby, BOD has genuine pace, exquisite hands, good defence and a kicking game. Arguably one of the most complete rugby players we've seen in recent years. Inside Centre: Many would be tipping the celebrity dating Gavin Henson for this position, and they might be right. However, I believe that his International centre partner, Tom Shanklin, will take the spot. Shanklin is more experienced and secure in defence. He will complement the silky skills of BOD and is capable of breaking holes in the NZ defence by using his immense physical presence. Left Wing: The left wing spot goes to Jason Robinson. One of the most talented open field runners seen in both Rugby codes, there is simply no one like him. His lack or height and ability to run traditional running lines mean that Woodward is likely to pick him at wing rather than full back. The back three however may well swap around during the game. Robinson is a heavily marked man these days, and I feel that defences almost have too much time to stop him when he runs from deep. He is a match winner though, you just couldn't leave him out. Fly-half: Many are still
talking about Stephen Jones. Stephen who? The number 10 shirt will
be on the back of Jonny Wilkinson. His fairly impressive form against
Argentina has proved his fitness, and I think we all knew about
his accuracy and composure with the boot, even if we'd maybe forgotten
a bit. He simply offers more in defence and attack than Jones, who,
although vastly improved from his year in France, is still a little
slow. Wilko is also Clive Woodward's protégé, deservedly
or not on the plane through form, he'll be starting. |
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