The British and Irish Lions may not have sent captain Sam Warburton a “wish you were here” card as they began a two-day break at the seaside ahead of the series-deciding third Test with Australia, but they are desperate to see the skipper return in a red jersey in Sydney on Saturday.

Rob Howley today laid bare the levels of bravery and desire that will be required when the British and Irish Lions go for Test series glory against Australia.

The importance of George North to Warren Gatland’s plan for the British & Irish Lions to beat Australia in Saturday’s first Test was underlined by the relief that greeted his clearance to play in Suncorp Stadium.