With much of the focus on two men battling it out for the first five role against the All Blacks – the Lions shouldn’t be too quick to pencil Dan Biggar in as the last option.
Biggar was a big part of Wales doing as well as they did during the 2015 Rugby World Cup. On the back of that, Biggar didn’t perform too badly in New Zealand last year either.
However, Johnny Sexton and Owen Farrell win on experience and form. On paper, Biggar doesn’t have nearly half as good numbers as those two – nor does he have as much presence in the camp. Sexton and Farrell are two very big personalities and egos, plus their history of good form can back it up.
For Biggar – not so much. He certainly didn’t have the impact in the European Championship that Farrell did for Saracens.
How Can Dan Biggar Make A Real Chance For Himself?
The biggest barrier Biggar faces this tour is getting into the minds of selectors and fans alike. A lot of pundits scoff at the very notion that Biggar would be a potential starter in the Test series.
In all reality; the only thing Biggar can do to improve his chances is to perform when given the nod. Starting on Wednesday against the Blues, Biggar won’t enjoy the freedom of being the sole goal kicker, but the 27-year old will have to lead the brand new back line around the park.
Perhaps the biggest challenge for Biggar will be finding a way to design plays that can break through the powerful Blues defensive pairing of Sonny Bill Williams and George Moala.
Warren Gatland Rings The Changes As Lions Eye Better Result
Leigh Halfpenny is one of the big names to lace up the boots for the Lions. Kiwi-born Jared Payne has recovered from a slight leg injury – but this is a completely different Lions side altogether.
A total of 15 changes – with much of the ‘best talent’ being saved for Saturday’s encounter against the Crusaders. Experiences hooker Ken Owens slots into the captaincy role, and its the first start on tour for Welsh halfback Rhys Webb.
The Lions Squad (vs Blues on Wednesday)
Leigh Halfpenny, Jack Nowell, Jared Payne, Robbie Henshaw, Elliot Daly, Dan Biggar, Rhys Webb, CJ Stander, Justin Tipuric, James Haskell, Courtney Lawes, Maro Itoje, Dan Cole, Ken Owens (c), Jack McGrath
Reserves: Rory Best, Joe Marler, Kyle Sinckler, Iain Henderson, Peter O’Mahony, Greig Laidlaw, Johnny Sexton, Liam Williams
“Main photo credit”
