The Telegraph Picks Their 37-Man Lions Squad As Things Stand Right Now

by Will Matthews · November 16, 2016

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The Lions tour of New Zealand is still several months away but that hasn’t stopped us from looking forward to it already.

Coming off the back of a massive series win over Australia, absolutely smashing the Wallabies in the final test, the Lions face the daunting task of trying to take down the back to back world champions, New Zealand.

The 2017 tour includes the usual three test matches along with some huge midweek games against the likes of the Crusaders, the Chiefs and the Maori All Blacks. You can view the full schedule here.

A lot has changed in the last few weeks when you look at the potential make up of the squad. Ireland not too long ago according to many of the leading media outlets, were set have little influence. That all changed when they secured a memorable victory over the All Blacks in Chicago, and could change even more should they repeat that feat this weekend.

The Telegraph as a result have picked their updated Lions squad following the last few weeks of international rugby. Interestingly they now believe 10 Irish men are on course to be picked next summer.

Forwards

Prop

Jack McGrath (Ireland)
Mako Vunipola (England)
Cian Healy (Ireland)
Dan Cole (England)
Gethin Jenkins (Wales)
WP Nel (Scotland)

Hooker

Dylan Hartley (England)
Rory Best (Ireland)
Jamie George (England)

Lock

Alun Wyn Jones (Wales)
Maro Itoje (England
Devin Toner (Ireland)
George Kruis (England)
Joe Launchbury (England)

Back-row

Chris Robshaw (England)
CJ Stander (Ireland)
James Haskell (England)
Sam Warburton (C) (Wales)
Toby Faletau (Wales)
Billy Vunipola (England)
Jamie Heaslip (Ireland)