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Warren Gatland will name his Lions line-up for the decisive third Test against South Africa on Saturday and changes are inevitable.
The head coach will surely consider revamping the creative hub of his team. Last weekend’s 27-9 defeat by the Springboks was a crushing setback for the tourists, who had been optimistic of sealing an historic series triumph.
The Lions did not score a point after half-time and barely threatened their opponents’ defence, leading to criticism of a cautious game-plan.
Dan Biggar will hope to retain his place at fly-half when the Lions line-up is named on Tuesday
As the coaches were finalising their selection, the expectation was that a back-line overhaul is in prospect. While Liam Williams and Josh Adams are regarded as leading contenders for inclusion in the starting XV, there will be much focus - as ever - on the 10-12 axis.
Dan Biggar will hope to retain his place at fly-half but Owen Farrell is sure to be considered and Finn Russell’s return to fitness presents another X-factor option for the match-day 23.
Assessing the tricky equation, former Wales and Lions playmaker James Hook said: ‘Dan Biggar takes the ball to the line for Northampton and he has been doing that more for Wales, but we didn’t see that last weekend.
‘He’s probably playing to orders by kicking a lot more. I think he only made three passes all match, which is ridiculous for an international outside-half.
Coach Warren Gatland will surely be considering revamping the creative hub of his team
‘You have to stick with Dan but I would have Owen Farrell next to him at 12 and Robbie Henshaw at outside centre.
