Vunipola set to start second Lions Test in Cape Town after super-sub heroics against South Africa

MAKO VUNIPOLA'S super-sub heroics in the First Test have seen him catapulted into the Lions starting line-up.

Boss Warren Gatland didn't even pick the three-times tourist for the first game in Cape Town.

But after Wyn Jones was struck down with a shoulder problem the 30-year-old was called onto the bench to play back-up to Rory Sutherland.

Now, though, Vunipola looks to have won the race to reclaim the No 1 shirt.

After missing out at first last week, Vunipola said: "It was hard.

"The initial reaction was frustration and you start wondering what you could have done.

"The best thing about it was that Gats was very open about it and said that anyone who wanted to speak about selection come and talk to me.

"But as soon as you get past that you congratulate your team-mate who has got the opportunity to go out there and represent you.

"You’re gutted for yourself, but you also know you have a massive role in terms of trying to help the team prepare.

"Having been fortunate enough to play in some games for the Lions before, I knew if I did get the opportunity I had to to make sure that I did my job and fully grasp and take hold of it and make sure I didn’t miss that opportunity.

"There are other lads that would love to be in my position."

After originally over-looking the Saracens star, Gatland added: "We have been really pleased with Mako.

"And I was really honest with him and just said: 'Mate, I didn't feel when you came into the squad that your fitness levels are as good as they should be for international rugby.'

"He agreed with me and we have changed a bit of his scrummaging technique and him coming off the bench any the moment – he has made a huge impact.

"He has scrummaged exceptionally well, carries great, is a great defender and we will see what happens over the next few days.

"I really felt for Wyn missing out, but I wasn't in any way worried about Mako coming in and being a replacement off the bench."

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