We believe we can beat the All Blacks, says British & Irish Lions’ star Owen Farrell
England playmaker hails ‘world-class’ squad, however Eddie Jones is unsure of Warren Gatland’s game plan
England playmaker Owen Farrell thinks the British & Irish Lions have a squad capable of taking on any team in the world and head to New Zealand on Monday believing they can beat the All Blacks in the three-test series.
The Lions arrive in New Zealand on Wednesday after a stopover in Melbourne and Farrell conceded taking on the world champions in their own back yard was a “tough challenge”.
“I don’t think anybody is going out there just to take part,” the 25-year-old said. “Everyone firmly believes we’re going out to win and that’s the way it should be.
“It’s a brilliant squad that’s going out there, full of world-class players. If we get it right and make sure we’re on the same page as soon as possible, I’d imagine this squad would challenge anyone.”
Farrell is a second time tourist but played only 17 minutes off the bench in the third test in Australia that secured a 2-1 victory for the Lions in 2013.
As an integral part of the England team which this year equalled the top tier test record of 18 consecutive wins under Eddie Jones, Farrell will be hoping he gets more test time in New Zealand.