Conor Murray On His Three Standout Lions Candidates & The Tour Captain He Wants

Conor Murray has chosen three players he thinks must be on the plane to New Zealand and who he would like to see as Lions captain.

Writing in a blog for Thomas Pink, official outfitters of the 2017 Lions tour, the Ireland and Munster nine believes Stuart Hogg, Alun Wyn Jones and Johnny Sexton are the three outstanding candidates.

“This year’s tour to New Zealand will be tough, but it’s something every player wants to test themselves against. I think the three players, in my opinion, who have made the biggest claim to deserving a seat on the plane are Alun Wyn Jones, Johnny Sexton and Stuart Hogg,”

Murray is widely expected to travel to New Zealand himself and to be the Test nine. Sam Warburton is currently the bookies favourite for the captaincy, but news of his injury today may have an effect on that. Murray reckons his international captain Rory Best should get the nod.

“Being Irish, I have to say I think Rory Best has shown the ability to Captain this year’s Lions squad. I would obviously back my Captain, but I feel Rory would be a super leader as he possesses all the skills you need – leadership, experience, and an ability to bring players together, build momentum … while keeping your feet on the ground!”

The 2013 tourist also gave his thoughts on the who he think were the outstanding performers at this year’s Six Nations.

“I think the outstanding players have got to be CJ Stander and Tadgh Furlong. CJ also stands out to me as one of the home nation’s best performers alongside Stuart Hogg and my opposite number Rhys Webb, who is always a tough opponent!”

Gatland names his squad on the 19th of April.

Conor Murray is speaking on behalf of Thomas Pink – official outfitter of the British & Irish Lions.