Nowell set to tackle Highlanders

By Mark Stevens
11/6/17

Exeter Chiefs star Jack Nowell will get his second outing as a British & Irish Lion after he was named in their starting line-up for their latest tour clash against the Highlanders on Tuesday.

The England international suffered defeat on his debut for Warren Gatland's side against the Blues last week, but he will get his chance to impress once more in a back three combination that also includes Scotland winger Tommy Seymour and Irish full-back Jared Payne.

Fresh from inflicting a first defeat of the season on the star-studded Crusaders, the Lions will be looking to keep up their momentum ahead of next weekend's testing encounter against the New Zealand Maoris.

Cornishman Nowell will also be joined in a starting XV that also sees the return of Lions captain Sam Warburton. The Welsh flanker missed the 12-3 win over the Crusaders but has made a full recovery from an ankle injury - and now has the chance to prove his form and fitness for the first All Blacks Test on June 24.

"At this stage of the tour everyone has had a start and as coaches we are happy that all the players have had a chance to put their hand up and perform in the Lions jersey," said head coach Gatland. "Each game is a chance for individuals to shine but more importantly it's about a collective performance.

"We are building some momentum and we have improved with every game. We were obviously pleased with the win against the Crusaders, especially our defence and game management, but we know the Highlanders will be another massive test for us as a squad."

Lions team to face the Highlanders: J Payne (Ireland), J Nowell, J Joseph (both England), R Henshaw (Ireland), T Seymour (Scotland), D Biggar, R Webb (both Wales), J Marler (England), R Best (Ireland), K Sinckler, C Lawes (both England), I Henderson (Ireland), J Haskell (England), S Warburton (Wales, capt), CJ Stander (Ireland).

Replacements: K Owens (Wales), J McGrath (Ireland), D Cole (England), A W Jones, J Tipuric (both Wales), G Laidlaw (Scotland), O Farrell, E Daly (both England).