O'Mahony to lead Lions against Maori All Blacks

The Lions have announced a near full strength squad to face the Maori All Blacks on Saturday in Rotorua.

Peter O’Mahony will lead the team alongside Faletau and O’Brien in the back-row. The pack is close to full strength with the only remaining questions surrounding whether Wyn Jones & Warburton will force their way into the starting 15 for the first test. Jack McGrath will also have a chance to push for a starting spot from the bench.

The pack has a strong Saracens presence with Kruis & Itoje teaming up in the second row & Jamie George feeding the lineout. Faletau is the only Welsh representative in the starting pack.

In the backline, Murray returns at 9. Sexton and Te’o will both need big performances as they look to secure a starting spot for the 1^st test. Farrell is named on the bench alongside Daly and Laidlaw.

In the back three, Halfpenny is given another chance at 15 and seems to be in pole position following Hogg's injury.

The Maori side meanwhile boasts one of the most explosive backlines in world rugby with McKenzie, Ioane, Ngatai, Milner-Skudder and James Lowe all providing plenty of attacking options.