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The key talking points ahead of the Lions’ series opener against South Africa

Only once before have the Lions come back from defeat in the first Test to win the series.

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The British and Irish Lions series against South Africa begins in Cape Town on Saturday to end months of uncertainty over whether it would actually take place due to the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic.

Here, the PA news agency looks at five talking points ahead of the match.

TMO  on trial

South African Marius Jonker is a controversial appointment as TMO for the Test series
South African Marius Jonker is a controversial appointment as TMO for the Test series (David Davies/PA)

First Test imperative

Finlay Calder led the 1989 Lions to victory over Australia - the only time they have come from behind to win a Test series
Finlay Calder led the 1989 Lions to victory over Australia – the only time they have come from behind to win a Test series (Tim Ockenden/PA)

How ready are the Boks?

South Africa are the world champions but have played only Test since
South Africa are the world champions but have played only one Test since winning the 2019 World Cup (PA)

Gatland rolls the dice

Locks as war

Maro Itoje will set the physical tone for the Lions against South Africa
Maro Itoje will set the physical tone for the Lions against South Africa (Steve Haag/PA)
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