Donal Lenihan: If Springboks ever seek to pair brawn with brains, Lions could be in trouble

The Lions have limited themselves to matching the key strengths the Springboks bring to the fight before looking to pull away through greater fitness and a more impactful bench

Conor Murray stretches during the British & Irish Lions Captain’s Run at Cape Town Stadium ahead of Saturday evening’s second test. Picture: Ashley Vlotman/Sportsfile

Lessons learned

Last weekend’s opening test represented a journey into the unknown for both sides. The uncompetitive nature of the tour, with the Lions only facing one searching test against a strong South African A side that they failed to negotiate, left Warren Gatland in a dilemma.