Five British & Irish Lions rookies looking to make an impact in South Africa

Jason Leonard, Chairman of the British and Irish Lions, announces Tadhg Beirne of Ireland into the squad. Picture: INPHO/Billy Stickland

Warren Gatland was never afraid to make a surprise selection call in his 11 years with Wales and he has again repeated the trick for the 2021 British & Irish Lions touring party.

Of the 37 players who will take on South Africa this summer, 18 will become Lions for the first time and there are number of selections many people didn’t see coming.