Just on the verge of turning 23-years-old, Fin Smith has been handed the ultimate birthday present after learning he has been selected by Andy Farrell as part of the illustrious British and Irish Lions squad, ahead of the eagerly anticipated tour of Australia.

Henry Pollock's class and energy were more important than his callow age, Andy Farrell said on Thursday after the 20-year-old England flanker was the standout selection in his 38-man British & Irish Lions squad to tour Australia.

The 30-year-old lock becomes the first Black player to captain the Lions and only the third Englishman in 89 years to be appointed leader of the touring side. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.