Sam Warburton backed for Lions captaincy by Wales legend despite Six Nations back seat

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Sam Warburton played two of the three British & Irish Lions Tests in 2013

Warburton and interim head coach Rob Howley decided that he should stand down from the captaincy last month in an effort to recapture his best form.

The 28-year-old passed the armband to second row Alun Wyn Jones, who deputised for him during the third Lions Test in Australia in 2013.

But Jonathan Davies, who played 46 times for Wales across rugby union and league, believes that Lions coach Warren Gatland could still pick Warburton to lead in New Zealand.

“Warburton is still Warren Gatland's man,” Davies said.

“If he plays well in the Six Nations, I still wouldn't rule him out being captain of the Lions.

“He's been injured, he hasn't played a lot and maybe he's lost a little bit of form.

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Lions captain Sam Warburton holds aloft the Tom Richards Trophy after his team beat Australia 41-16 to win the series 2-1

“But he's been a great captain and he's great with the media.

“I think it might be good for him so he can relax and enjoy his game.

“With Alun Wyn Jones he's a great leader, he's done it before and he's done it for the Lions.

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Jonathan Davies is a legendary Welsh rugby player and well-regarded pundit

“I suppose Alun Wyn Jones is nailed on in the Wales side whereas maybe Warburton wasn't with Justin Tipuric playing so well.”

Both flankers have been named in the starting line-up for Wales’ opening Six Nations clash against Italy in Rome.

And while the burden of captaincy has rarely hindered Warburton’s performance previously, Davies admitted that a clear mind will certainly assist him in regaining his form.

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Sam Warburton got injured during the last British & Irish Lions tour

“When you think of it he hasn't had bad tournaments in the past when he has been captain so if he does play better it'd be great for Wales!” Davies added.

“But I just think he wants to relax a little bit and really have a go at playing and getting over the niggly injuries he’s had [sic] prior to the Six Nations.”

***Jonathan Davies was speaking at a Robert Walters event. An official sponsor of The British & Irish Lions. For info visit robertwalters.co.uk***

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