Lions Tour to New Zealand 2017 Review

The British and Irish Lions’ tour of New Zealand ended with Sam Warburton lifting up the trophy with Kieran Read.

The British and Irish Lions are returning home after earning a hard-fought draw in both the third test, and the tour as a whole, against New Zealand.

New Zealand took the spoils in the first game with a 30-15 win on 24th June in Auckland, but the Lions kept hopes alive with a nail-biting 24-21 win in Wellington on 1st July.

The final test had all the makings of a classic, and while the final result of 15-15 was perhaps disappointing for both sides, it was a fair result after 80 minutes of pulsating action.

The All Blacks led 12-6 at half-time through tries from Ngani Laumape and Jordie Barrett, and had several other try-scoring opportunities. It seemed as if New Zealand would finish the job, but a magnificent try from Elliot Daly and three penalties from Owen Farrell left the score at 12-12 with 20 minutes left.

At this point, the game was at a tense stalemate. Jerome Kaino’s sin-binning gave the Lions momentum, but they could not capitalise. This allowed Beauden Barrett to convert a penalty and put the home side ahead.

However, Owen Farrell was able to make the honours even with a penalty of his own, putting an end to a war of attrition that truly deserved a winner.

Who were the players of the series?

The series saw a number of players stand out for their exceptional performances, with some of the world’s best on display over the three tests.

Wales’ Sam Warburton was an exceptional captain for all three games, especially in the finale where his leadership and toughness set a shining example to the rest of the team.

Owen Farrell was a reliable kicker throughout the series, and he continues to reinforce his reputation as one of the best players in the world. Throughout the series, Maro Itoje was also a constant threat to New Zealand’s defence and made his presence felt all over the pitch.

For New Zealand, Jordie Barrett was phenomenal at full-back in all three games and was instrumental in his team’s bright start in the third test. Sam Whitelock is another who impressed and consolidated himself as the team’s best forward throughout the tour.

Captain Kieran Read was another consistent performer, but will be devastated to not crown his 100th Test with a victory.

What is next for the British and Irish Lions?

Any doubts about the British and Irish Lions’ competitiveness can be dismissed with this series.

Prior to the tournament, there were questions over whether the team would be strong enough to beat the world champions, but returning home with a share of the spoils is sure to quell questions about their future.

Wales coach Warren Gatland will now return to his national side after a successful tour, despite rumours linking him with the New Zealand job.

Players will also now be returning to their sides for international duty as they prepare for the autumn internationals. In November, England have games with Australia, Samoa and Argentina to look forward to, while Wales face Australia, Georgia, New Zealand and South Africa.

On the other hand, Scotland will take on Samoa, New Zealand and Australia, whereas Ireland have encounters lined up against South Africa, Fiji and Argentina.