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Tipuric relishing Lions opportunity

Tipuric relishing Lions opportunity

Wales flanker Justin Tipuric is determined to capitalise on his selection for the British & Irish Lions’ clash with the Barbarians.

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The Ospreys star is one of nine Welshmen starting in Hong Kong on Saturday.

And with tour captain Sam Warburton sidelined due to a minor knee injury, Tipuric is aiming to make the most out of his Lions debut.

“It’s a nice chance for me to get out there and wear a Lions jersey and really enjoy myself,” Tipuric said.

“I think the biggest thing in rugby you’ve got to do is really enjoy it.

“To wear that jersey on the weekend is going to be special.

“Sometimes you have to pinch yourself just to see where you are and what you’re going to do.”

“Sam’s got to take it a bit easy. On the first game you don’t want to make it bad.

“There’s nothing worse than seeing another player with an injury so we’ve got to sort that out. Obviously he’ll be back for the next game or the game after.”

Despite Warburton’s absence, Tipuric is still part of an all-Welsh back-row alongside Dan Lydiate and Toby Faletau.

And Tipuric is relishing the link-up with familiar faces.

“They’re great players so it’s a great pleasure playing with them,” added Tipuric.

“Obviously we know each other’s games a bit better than others at the minute [as we’re] just getting used to each other.

“[I’m] just really looking forward to getting out there.”

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