British and Irish Lions

British & Irish Lion Simon Taylor is not daunted by the prospect of being in the spotlight throughout the tour which kicks off against the Bay of Plenty on June 4 - instead he believes he will feel quite at home.

New Zealand is considered the hardest of all tour destinations with visiting teams unable to escape being thrust onto centre stage in a rugby-mad culture which cherishes a series victory over the Lions.

But Scotland number eight Taylor is aware how tough a task the Lions face this summer - and is looking forward to the prospect.

"I toured New Zealand with Scotland's under-21s in 2000. We were based in Auckland but from what I saw of the country it seemed quite similar to Scotland - quite small and quiet," he said.

"Rugby was very popular in New Zealand but I don't think it was comparable to football over here and the hype that surrounds that. I just think rugby is more ingrained into their daily culture."

Sam Warburton says he is 'absolutely delighted' after being chosen to lead The British & Irish Lions in Saturday's first Test match against the Qantas Wallabies.

British & Irish Lions head coach Warren Gatland admits he and his assistants faced some tough selection calls when picking the side to face the Qantas Wallabies in Saturday's first Test.