The Current Best Starting British & Irish Lions XV Statistically Speaking

Following on from a 2-1 series win against the Wallabies in 2013, the Lions will hit the road again next summer as they travel to New Zealand to take on the world champions.

As we approach the new season, player’s will no doubt have one eye on next summer as they bid to show the kind of form that will see them selected to represent the British & Irish Lions. Playing for the Lions is considered to be the highest honour in northern hemisphere, and the pinnacle of your career for most players.

While a squad of over 30-men will travel to New Zealand, there are only 15 all important, starting test positions. Competition for places has never been higher, with a wealth of talent available for whoever gets the top job and is give the daunting task of selection a squad, capable of defeating the mighty All Blacks.

While a lot will happen, between now and the end of the season, we’ve decided to put together a starting XV, based on the stats by the guys over at The Rugby Net. Is this a side capable of beating the All Blacks? Who would you select in your Lions XV?

1. Jack McGrath (Ireland)
2. Rory Best (Ireland)
3. Dan Cole (England)
4. Devin Toner (Ireland)
5. Maro Otoje (England)
6. James Haskell (England)
7. Chris Robshaw (England)
8. Jamie Heaslip (Ireland)
9. Conor Murray (Ireland
10. Dan Biggar (Wales)
11. Jack Nowell (England)
12. Jamie Roberts (Wales)
13. Jonathan Joseph (England)
14. George North (Wales)
15. Mike Brown (England)

Here’s the starting XV we’ve chosen to take on the All Blacks.

1. Jack McGrath (Ireland)
2. Rory Best (Ireland)
3. Dan Cole (England)
4. Alun Wyn Jones (Wales)
5. Maro Otoje (England)
6. CJ Stander (Ireland)
7. Sam Warburton (Wales)
8. Billy Vunipola (England)
9. Conor Murray (Ireland)
10. Dan Biggar (Wales)
11. Anthony Watson (England)
12. Jamie Roberts (Wales)
13. Robbie Henshaw (Ireland)
14. George North (Wales)
15. Stuart Hogg (Scotland)