No surprises for Lions

By Mitch Phillips

DURBAN (Reuters) - British and Irish Lions coach Ian McGeechan named a largely predictable side for the first test against South Africa on Saturday saying his six-game preparation had left the tourists where he wanted them to be.

The Springboks said they, too, were happy with their preparations, dismissing suggestions that their lack of a warmup match and game time had left them rusty.

The debate about who is in the best shape will rage until Saturday's King's Park clash, and there are plenty of voices ready to say their piece.

Coachload upon coachload of red-clad Lions supporters poured into the balmy coastal city on Thursday after some poorly attended provincial games.

"We know its a different ball game now," McGeechan said after announcing a starting team who have not played together in any of the tour games.

"I've been very keen to give every player every opportunity and I couldn't have asked from any more from everyone involved. We are where we want to be."

McGeechan's mastery of the Lions blend, fashioned over 25 years as a player and coach, meant that he used the build-up games to perfection and ensured the team virtually picked itself.

Ireland's David Wallace edged Martyn Williams for the key position of openside flanker while Welshman Alun Wyn Jones got the nod as the second lock alongside captain Paul O'Connell.