Warren Gatland: Dream Lions XV from three tours - Page 3 of 3 - Ruck

Warren Gatland: Dream Lions XV from three tours

SECOND-ROW:

4. Maro Itoje (England, 2017 & 2021): World-class in 2017. The English lock was in excellent form once again in 2021. He was one of few Lions forwards to consistently succeeded in clearing out and living with the physicality that the South African players brought.

5. Alun Wyn Jones (Wales, 2013, 2017 & 2021): Became a firm fixture in 2013, and was handed the leadership duties when Sam Warburton was injured. Led by example in Sydney climax and proved himself real captaincy material. Fantastic again four years later before making a inspirational return from injury to start all three tests again in 2021. Warren Gatland must see him as his most trusted lieutenant.

BACK-ROW:

6. Sean O’Brien (Ireland, 2013 & 2017): Deputised well for crocked skipper Warburton during final Test and showed his versatility during the tour, appearing in all three positions across the back-row.  Intense and physical against the All Blacks, scoring one of the most memorable tries of all-time.

7. Sam Warburton (Wales, 2013 & 2017): In 2013, his marvellous performance in the second Test when he showed his power and ability at the breakdown. But tour was book-ended by injuries and he sat out Third Test decider. Returned to lead the side once against the All Blacks in 2017.

8. Taulupe Faletau (Wales, 2013,2017 & 2021): Gatland got it wrong when he left the Welsh workhorse out of the opening two Tests in 2013 after shining in franchise games but when he got the call he was immense. Outstanding tour again four years later. Crucial try in Second Test win.

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