New Zealand v Lions: who do you think has the edge in the individual battles?

Image: Can the Lions stop Beauden Barrett?

Ahead of the first Test between New Zealand and the British and Irish Lions, who do you think has the edge in the individual head-to-head battles?

The All Blacks and British and Irish Lions meet Saturday in Auckland in the first match of a three-Test series in what is expected to be a clash of styles.

Under Steve Hansen, the All Blacks have been proponents of the running game playing a style based on pace, skill and athleticism among both backs and forwards, which no team in the world has matched.

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Lions coach Warren Gatland has tailored a game plan focused on fundamentals which stresses the need for a strong set piece, physicality at breakdowns, accurate kicking and the need to defend against the best attacking team in world rugby.

But who has the edge in each position? Will Rieko Ioane run riot against Anthony Watson like he did against Jack Nowell? Can Owen Farrell hunt down Beauden Barrett and stop him controlling the game?

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Will Kieran Read's lack of game time hand the advantage to Taulupe Faletau, who has been outstanding for the Lions so far?

Take a look at our poll and cast your vote for each position.

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New Zealand v British and Irish Lions: Head to head

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