British & Irish Lion Ben Youngs admits there is pressure on him to perform when he pulls on the England No.9 shirt against New Zealand on Saturday.
Scrum-half Youngs appeared in two Tests against Australia last summer as the Lions secured a famous series victory but has since lost his England starting berth to Danny Care.
However, a shoulder injury sustained by Care in training on Monday has given the 24-year-old Leicester Tigers man an opportunity to shine in the first Test at Eden Park.
And with so much competition at the position, including the likes of Northampton Saint Lee Dickson, it is an opportunity that Youngs fully intends to seize.
“It’s a shame for Danny, as I know he has worked hard to be fit for the game but it’s great to be starting against New Zealand at Eden Park,” said Youngs.
“I know, with four scrum-halves in the squad, there is a massive amount of competition for me to perform for the team and be at the top of my game.”
