Lions - The Back Row

So, part two, and arguably the area of most contention. There are so many options going into this Lions tour, but alas we must make our choices.

A lot will potentially ride on the chemistry that Gatland will want within his back row, and from looking at Wales he favours a true openside, a traditional six, and a ball carrying 8. I must say that I completely agree with this balance and it has been mighty effective for Wales as shown in the 2011 world cup and 2012 6 nations. Apart from Wales, Ireland have had a fantastic back row in recent times, all be it with a slightly different balance, containing three very strong ball carriers, but with a more athletic and dynamic 8. Englands back row was dominant against the All blacks and played well against Scotland, but the balance was undone with the injury to Morgan and the failure to instate a proper number 8. Scotland’s also performed well, getting a win down under and looking solid all 6 nations, with Kelly Brown leading Scotland valiantly during the tournament.

Apart from the names mentioned from the 6 nations, there are several players returning from injury, Lydiate and Ferris being two superb blindsides. Also, the likes of Tipuric and Steffon Armitage, who may have been unfancied pre-tournament is now right in the mix!

So, my choices:

6 – Lydiate: if he regains form he would be my starter, superb all round player, puts in the hard yards, carries well, tackles hard, a nuisance at the breakdown, and big and strong to boot, for me he is an ideal blindside. However, Wood looked fantastic at 6, and if Lydiate doesn’t regain fitness and form, then Woody would take the starting berth.

Back up: Wood

7 – Warburton: A true openside is needed down under. Pocock may be injured but the lad they’ve brought in is nearly a carbon copy in terms of playing style. Looked better towards the end of the 6 nations, on form the best 7 in the northern hemisphere, although Tipuric displayed his class and may start to dispute this. Sam will be key at getting the Lions on the front fit and will slow down a very pacey Australian attack.

Back up: Robshaw
8 – Morgan: Although injured for four games of the tournament, he’s looked very good when he has played for England and has been instrumental for Gloucester in the Aviva. Again, a true number 8 who is great at breaking the gain line. Big, powerful and surprisingly quick. Will get us on the front foot.

Back up: Heaslip

I think 8 back rowers will go, so there are two more places up for grabs. I think O’Brien should be one as although he plays 7, I believe his style of play would leave him equally as comfortable at 6 and 8. Love his aggressive attack play. And for the other, a tough choice. At 6 we have Lydiate and Wood, whilst Robshaw and potentially O’brien can play there. At 8, Morgan and Heaslip, again with the potential for O’Brien to cover and Wood can do a decent job there. At 7, only Warburton is the true 7, whilst Robshaw plays a good game there it’s based more on energy then technique. Therefore I’d say Justin Tipuric should take the final place. If we’re struggling at the breakdown both him and Sam can play to give us the advantage.

Really tough choices, with Ferris, Faletau and the entire Scottish back row left back home. What’s your thoughts?