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British and Irish Lions name unchanged XV for New Zealand series decider

The British and Irish Lions name an unchanged team for the first time since 1993 for Saturday's third and decisive Test against New Zealand.

The British and Irish Lions have named an unchanged team and an unchanged bench for Saturday's series decider against New Zealand.

Warren Gatland has kept faith with the team that ended the All Blacks' 46-Test unbeaten home record in Wellington last Saturday with a 24-21 win.

Mako Vunipola is retained at loosehead despite an ill-disciplined performance in the second Test, while Courtney Lawes remains on the bench as Alun-Wyn Jones and Maro Itoje continue their second-row partnership.

Liam Williams is named at full-back despite missing training on Wednesday, with Owen Farrell again selected at number 12 outside Johnny Sexton after kicking 14 points in Wellington, and Sam Warburton again captains the side from the blind-side flank.

It is the first time since 1993 that the Lions have kept the same XV for consecutive Tests.

Lions team to face New Zealand

Liam Williams (Wales), Anthony Watson (England), Jonathan Davies (Wales), Owen Farrell (England), Elliot Daly (England); Johnny Sexton (Ireland), Conor Murray (Ireland); Mako Vunipola (England), Jamie George (England) Tadhg Furlong (Ireland) Maro Itoje (England), Alun Wyn Jones (Wales) Sam Warburton (capt, Wales), Sean O'Brien (Ireland), Taulupe Faletau (Wales)

Replacements: Ken Owens (Wales), Jack McGrath (Ireland), Kyle Sinckler (England), Courtney Lawes (England), CJ Stander (Ireland), Rhys Webb (Wales), Ben Te'o (England), Jack Nowell (England)

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Lions head coach Warren Gatland smiles after their victory during the International Test match between the Australian Wallabies and British & Irish Lions at ANZ Stadium on July 6, 2013
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