Warren Gatland has revealed his all-time British and Irish Lions lineup, featuring a host of legends from his tenure across four tours.
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Reflecting on his time from the 2009 South Africa adventure as an assistant coach to head coach stints in 2013, 2017, and 2021, Gatland had a wealth of talent to pick from. But the highlight of his selection? His admiration for two-time Lions captain Sam Warburton, whom he called “probably the best I have worked with.”
The Welsh Connection
Gatland’s time coaching Wales clearly left an impact, with several of his Welsh protégés earning spots in the starting XV. Leigh Halfpenny locks down the fullback position, Jamie Roberts and Jonathan Davies form a powerhouse midfield, and George North electrifies the wing. Mike Phillips gets the nod at scrum-half, while Adam Jones anchors the scrum. Alun Wyn Jones commands the second row, and Taulupe Faletau fills the No. 8 jersey. On the bench, Gethin Jenkins ensures even more Welsh representation.
The Captain’s Praise
For Gatland, there was no question about his captain. Sam Warburton leads the side, and the former coach couldn’t hold back his admiration.
“He is still probably the best I have worked with in terms of ability at the breakdown and over the ball, and you need that with the Lions,” Gatland wrote in his column for The Telegraph.
The southern hemisphere refs’ high praise for Warburton, comparing him to the likes of Richie McCaw, Michael Hooper, and David Pocock, also impressed him. “A selfless and humble player who led by example,” he added.
WARREN GATLAND’S GREATEST LIONS XV
Leigh Halfpenny
The metronomic boot and fearless fullback play put Halfpenny in Gatland’s backline.
Tommy Bowe
The flying Irish wing who lit up tours with his clinical finishing.
Jonathan Davies
A defensive rock and attacking force in the midfield, Davies stood tall in the biggest moments.
Jamie Roberts
Gatland’s battering-ram centre, unstoppable on the crash ball.
George North
A try-scoring machine, North combined size and speed to devastating effect.
Johnny Sexton
Gatland’s field general at fly-half, Sexton’s game management was pivotal.
Mike Phillips
The abrasive scrum-half who relished physical battles and marshalled the forwards expertly.
Mako Vunipola
A dynamic presence in the front row, bringing energy around the park.
Jamie George
Dependable at the lineout and in the loose, George offered everything Gatland needed from his hooker.
Adam Jones
The scrummaging specialist who set the platform for success.
Alun Wyn Jones
The tireless warrior and natural leader in the second row.
Paul O’Connell
An iconic captain and lock, O’Connell brought unmatched experience and steel.
Tom Croft
A lineout master and roaming flanker who could burn defenders with his pace.
Sam Warburton (c)
The ultimate breakdown operator and selfless captain, Warburton epitomized Lions spirit.
Taulupe Faletau
Mr. Consistency at No. 8, Faletau’s all-around game shone on every tour.
Replacements
Tom Youngs, Gethin Jenkins, Tadhg Furlong, Maro Itoje, Jamie Heaslip, Conor Murray, Owen Farrell, Brian O’Driscoll.
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Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players
From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.
Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!
