Gatland on the new Russell/Farrell combination

In naming his team for this coming weekend against the Emirates Lions, British & Irish Lions Head Coach Warren Gatland picked an interesting combo to fill the flyhalf and inside centre channels in Scotland’s Finn Russell and England captain Owen Farrell respectively. 

The two have never played alongside one another before but are prominent figures in their positions.  

Speaking to the South African media, Gatland gave his take on the duo. 

"They've worked really well together," he said. "Alluding to what Stuart has said, Owen has had a huge amount of experience. Third tour and captain of England, adding a lot to the environment. 

"Finn has a slightly different way of playing. He’s matured amazingly in the last few years in terms of his game management and the way he controls the game. 

"We know what flair he has from an attacking perspective, but it’s also those deft attacking kicks that he’s able to bring to his game. I thought against France the way he managed that game and kicking game and control was outstanding. 

"It’s pretty exciting to have a look at that combination. We do want to have a look at Owen at 10 at some stage as well and give him an opportunity there because that’s where he’s been picked. But we know he's equally comfortable in the 12 position." 

Asked if Farrell would be seen in the number 10 jersey this tour, Gatland said: 

"If you look back at 2017, he played 10 and then we moved him to 12 for the Crusaders game when Johnny Sexton came on and that went really well. 

"It does give us an opportunity to have a look at different combinations. He’s very comfortable at both 10 and 12."