Andy Farrell delivers Maro Itoje fitness update - after leaving his Lions captain OUT of first game in Australia

Lions head coach Andy Farrell insisted there are no injury concerns over Maro Itoje after the tour skipper was left out of the team for the opening match in Australia.

Hooker Dan Sheehan has taken over the captaincy duties for the match against Western Force, with 13 changes made to the XV that lost to Argentina.

Farrell will soon start building combinations geared towards the Test matches against the Wallabies but this weekend he has opted for the lock pairing of Scott Cummings and Joe McCarthy.

‘Like everyone else, it is just a matter of giving people a chance,’ said Farrell. 

‘If leaders of the squad fall over on the way you have got to have plans, so a bit of rotation.

‘We have got a lot of good second rows and Maro is a team player, he knows people have to get going and people have to show their hand as well. 

 'And that competition will make him and the rest of the players fight a little bit harder. 

'But having said that he is the captain of the touring party and he, along with everyone else who is not playing, will be unbelievably supportive of his team mates this week.’

Henry Pollock is among the players who have been given a chance to impress, with the 20-year-old starting at No 8.

‘He’s got a great attitude,’ said Farrell. ‘He’s certainly not overawed. I love that. 

'You want them kids to be themselves. You don’t want a kid to go under the radar and in three weeks’ time just settle into a side. 

'You pick him for a reason. He’s a Lion, just like the eldest player. 

'There’s no difference whatsoever. His character is infectious to everyone. He’s a great lad.’