Shane Williams will become the oldest back to play for the British & Irish Lions when he makes his 15th appearance in the famous jersey after answering an emergency SOS from former Wales team mate Rob Howley.

Mike Phillips is hoping to get the chance to exorcise more than a few demons in Brisbane on Saturday when the British & Irish Lions kick-off their Test series against the Qantas Wallabies.

British & Irish Lions head coach Warren Gatland says he's excited about the prospect of getting the best out of his newly extended squad rather than losing sleep over the fitness of some of his big names.