Lions Watch: Scrum Halfs

With Warren Gatland now intensely thinking about his starting XV against the All Blacks, we analyse the options Gatland has at disposal at 9.

Conor Murray - Ireland 

The Munster man has been in impressive form at the start of this season scoring 3 tries in the PRO 12 and only 3 bad passes being recorded. Has previous history with the Lions under Gatland ,coming off the bench in that amazing 3rd test  41-16 victory over Australia, linking up well with compatriot Jonathan Sexton. Can always snipe in for a score and vastly experienced at international level. The favourite to start on June 24th in Eden Park.

Ben Youngs - England

Like Murray, Youngs has experience on Lions tours - starting the 2nd test and coming off the bench in the 1st test in 2013. Cementing his starting place under Eddie Jones, Youngs has kept improving with his work rate upping under the Australian coach. Has yet to hit form this season but had a good 6 Nations and summer tour to Australia, dotting down 3 times and starting over rival scrum half Danny Care 6 times out of 8. Will be in the mix to start come June.

Rhys Webb - Wales

Webb was in fantastic form pre injury and looked set to have an outstanding World Cup, unfortunately a bad injury ankle occured but Webb is starting to get into the groove of rugby again. With Gareth Davies performing so well, Webb has upped his game, now seen as Wales' no.1 scrum half. Toured against NZ in Wales' disappointing tour down under but is bound to have gained valuable experience. Gatland will know Webb best having worked closely with him before, which could give him an edge.

Danny Care - England

Could be a good option off the bench for Gatland. Care brings so much energy to Harlequins and England which could help against one of the fittest sides in the All Blacks. Without Lions experience but Danny Care does bring something different to the table than the previously mentioned options. Can spot a gap better than others and can always find a way to snipe over for a score. Had a particularly good 6 Nations, including a memorable try against France showing what he can do. An outsider at the moment but could force his way into Gatland's thinking.