Rugby - Warburton choice a nod to physicality


  • Rugby
  • Thursday, 29 Jun 2017

Rugby Union - British & Irish Lions Training & Press Conference - Carton House, Co. Kildare, Ireland - 22/5/17 British & Irish Lions Sam Warburton poses for a photo Reuters / Clodagh Kilcoyne Livepic EDITORIAL USE ONLY. - RTX372E0

WELLINGTON (Reuters) - The decision to start British and Irish Lions tour captain Sam Warburton in Saturday's crucial second test is a reflection of coach Warren Gatland's desire to attack the breakdown more and match the physicality of the All Blacks.

Warburton was not included in the starting side for last week's 30-15 first test loss at Eden Park, with Sean O'Brien preferred at openside flanker and Peter O'Mahony leading the side from the blindside of the scrum.

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