5 Talking Points As Warren Gatland Names His Team For The 1st Test

Here we go.

Warren Gatland has named his first Test side. The Lions head coach has surprised us all with a number of decisions, with the general consensus that he’s made the right calls in most areas.

Here are five talking points.

Liam Williams at fullback

Gatland has rewarded the Scarlets man for an excellent midweek performance with a start against the All Blacks. His fellow Welshman Leigh Halfpenny has been dropped to the bench. It’s a surprising decision, but a welcome one as Williams poses a much better threat in attack.

George North is dropped

North has struggled for form, with English winger Elliot Daly preferred. Another welcome surprise to be honest. Daly offers serious pace on the wing and is an incredible finisher.

O’Mahony is captain

What a few months for the Munster man. From not in the squad plans originally, to Test captain against the All Blacks. A massive decision, but the right one. That game against England at the Six Nations really catapulted his season.

Warburton on the bench.

Gatland had a big call to make here. O’Brien deserves his spot in the starting line-up no doubt, but perhaps Stander would have been a better option on the bench.

Alun Wyn Jones gets the nod.

Young Maro Itoje will have to settle for a place on the bench, but what an impact sub to have. Jones will need a big game, after Gatland trusted him with a spot in the starting line-up.