Warren Gatland reveals the player poll Owen Farrell won

June 23, 2021
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Ultimate Rugby

British & Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland expects Owen Farrell to be a key figure in the Lions' leadership group for the upcoming tour of South Africa.

The Lions boss revealed that Farrell topped a poll among his fellow squad members to select a leadership group for the tour.

"I've spoken to Owen and the chat was about it not being the greatest Six Nations, but we picked him on the leadership and experience that he can bring to the group," Gatland told reporters on Tuesday.

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"He's a fantastic competitor and what he has achieved and his success speaks for itself."

"I thought it was interesting that he ended up with the most votes out of anyone in the leadership group, so that speaks volumes for the respect in which he is held by all the players in the group, not just the England players.

"Knowing him as a competitor he will go out and make the most of his opportunities and I expect him to have a great tour."