Sam Warburton has described the second Test against New Zealand as the biggest match of his career, as the British and Irish Lions face a must-win situation in Wellington. The Wales flanker, who captained the Lions in Australia four years ago, returns to the starting line-up at Westpac Stadium knowing defeat would end the series.
“It would be No1,” Warburton said of the match's significance. “I have managed to beat every other nation in the world but I haven’t beaten New Zealand. We know it’s all or nothing now. We have one chance. It’s like knockout rugby and hopefully that brings the best out of the guys.”
The Lions were outplayed in the 30-15 first Test defeat, particularly at the breakdown. Warburton acknowledged the setback but insisted it has fuelled determination. “It was probably the first game on tour that we were beaten in the battle at the breakdown from a physicality point of view. We’ve accepted that but that’s just going to fuel the fire for this Saturday.”
Warburton also emphasised the need for a calm mindset. “If anything I think before the game, it’s going to be a matter of trying to calm the boys down a little bit and keep a clear head because, while there are lots of games that we say are must-win, this is actually must-win.”
In injury news, George North and Robbie Henshaw have been ruled out of the rest of the tour with torn hamstring and pectoral muscles respectively. The Lions have no plans to call up replacements.
