Owen Farrell gets Warren Gatland’s backing as selection looms

Warren Gatland has given the green light for Owen Farrell to start Saturday’s first test against the All Blacks but his specific role in the Lions line-up will have a massive impact on Johnny Sexton.

Saracens and England fly-half Farrell was withdrawn from Saturday’s matchday squad to face the Maori All Blacks with a mild thigh strain, having been named as the replacement cover for starting 10, Sexton.

The development and a less than clear prognosis from the Lions ahead of the game had led to speculation he could miss the test series opener this weekend at Eden Park, but, speaking yesterday, head coach Gatland declared Farrell good to go and would resume training today.