The British Equestrian Federation's performance director, Will Connell, paid tribute to Laurens's impact on the sport.

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If they do beat South Africa, Lions captain Paul O'Connell will need to play a big part.

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But O'Connell will be free to play for Munster in the Heineken Cup tie against Biarritz on 3 April.

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Captain Paul O'Connell will have such a massive feeling of pride as he runs down the tunnel clutching the stuffed toy lion each tour has as its mascot.

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Forwards are always at the centre of the action and can lead by example, which means O'Connell will be the perfect presence both on and off the field.

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McGeechan has chosen a proven combination, all from the Ospreys, in the back three, but the partnerships of Roberts and Earls at centre, O'Gara and Blair at half-back, and Shaw and O'Connell at lock, will be tried for the first time.

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"Decisions will go against you in a rugby game, " O'Connell added.

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"There is just the chance that you will have the opportunity, and Florida is a huge Powerball state, " O'Connell said.

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"Having said that, O'Connell is the captain of Munster and has also captained Ireland at Test level and we will not underestimate his leadership capabilities, " added De Villiers.

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