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Out-of-favour flyhalf Quade Cooper has received a vote of support from an unlikely source, with British and Irish Lions prop Mako Vunipola saying he would start Cooper ahead of James O’Connor.
Vunipola has also predicted that Cooper’s Reds will be the hardest to beat on tour outside of the Test matches, the Lions big watch on Will Genia, his desire to play Super Rugby amongst other topics.
I caught up with England prop and new Lion Mako Vunipola just before the Barbarians game to get his thoughts ahead of the tour of Australia
Q: Did you have a suspicion you would be picked or was it a complete surprise to be named in the Lions squad?
MV: Not really mate, I didn’t think that I would be in the running, especially because I didn’t feature too heavily during the Six Nations.
Q: Would you start James O’Connor or Quade Cooper at flyhalf?
MV: On current form Quade Cooper, is looking back to his best standing flat to the line and threatening defences with his footwork and skill.
Q: Who do you feel will be the toughest non-Test opposition on the tour?
MV: It’s hard to say because there are lots of unknown teams, but the easy answer would be Queensland being former Super Rugby champions.
Q: Would you be interested in playing Super Rugby later in your career, ala Michalak and James Haskell?
MV: Yeah definitely, would love to experience Super Rugby and try new things over there. That and rugby in the hot summer is a big plus!
Q: How have you found the general environment with the Lions squad so far, do you ever get starstruck?
MV: They have been very easygoing boys, and they are very easy to get along with and all trying to form friendships as quick as possible, but yeah there have been a few a starstruck moments!
Q: Who is the most daunting Wallabies player and why?
MV: Will Genia he has come back in great form and we know that everything they do goes through him. He’s a great leader and we know we must be wary of him.
Q: Can we expect to see any of your legendary dance moves on tour?
MV: I’m not too sure mate don’t worry, but if I get the chance I will go for it.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.