Itoje set to captain Lions vs Argentina

MARO Itoje will captain the British and Irish Lions for the first time in their non-cap international against Argentina in Dublin tomorrow.

- By DUNCAN BECH

Itoje leads a starting XV that features Marcus Smith at full-back and will be directed by England half-backs Alex Mitchell and Fin Smith.

Tadhg Furlong will be given the opportunity to prove his fitness after struggling with a calf injury that ruled him out of Leinster’s United Rugby Championship final victory over the Bulls.

Furlong is included on a bench that also features hooker Ronan Kelleher, the only player to be involved against the Pumas six days after taking part in the end-of-season finals.

“Congratulations to Maro Itoje ahead of leading out the Lions for the first time. It’s a truly special moment and one that very few players ever get to experience,” head coach Andy Farrell said.