Fired-up Warburton ready to do things his way

Sam Warburton is ready to lead the Lions into battle in Brisbane tomorrow after overcoming a month of intense competition in the backrow, not to mention a difficult season in the red of Wales.

Warburton admitted he had confidence issues throughout a turbulent season which saw him relinquish the captaincy of his country in the middle of the Six Nations championship.

The Cardiff Blues openside was controversially named tour skipper for the eagerly anticipated summer series despite a shaky year at international level but Warburton is confident he has regained his form, and more importantly, the respect needed to lead his side into battle.