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Gatland rewards Wellington winners with unchanged side for third Test

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Lions tours much more than just rugby (1:00)

Former All Blacks prop Craig Dowd has hailed the off-field impact of the British & Irish Lions tour, saying the thousands of supports who've flocked to New Zealand have created a wonderful feeling up and down the country. (1:00)

Warren Gatland has named an unchanged 23 for Saturday's series decider between the British & Irish Lions and the All Blacks at Eden Park.

Mako Vunipola retains his place at loosehead prop despite criticism of his high penalty count in the second Test while Liam Williams has overcome a minor leg issue to start at fullback.

Gatland said: "It is not very often on a Lions Tour that you get to pick the same 23 for the following game.

"We felt we should reward the players for the result and the courage that they showed in coming from behind from 18-9 down, digging themselves out of a hole and then finishing strongly in that last 10 to 15 minutes.

"We are all aware of how big this game is and we are expecting a backlash from the All Blacks. But the pleasing thing about the 2nd Test is just how strong we were in the last 10 or 15 minutes, in terms of energy and enthusiasm so we still feel there is another level in us.

"This is a huge chance for this group of players to show their abilities and reap the benefits of the work everyone has put in. It is their chance to make Lions history."

While the tourists have opted for continuity, injuries and suspension have forced changes in the All Blacks side, which includes Jordie Barrett, Ngani Laumape and Julian Savea.

British & Irish Lions: Williams, Watson, Davies, Farrell, Daly, Sexton, Murray; Vunipola, George, Furlong, Itoje, Jones, Warburton (capt), O'Brien, Faletau.

Replacements: Owens, McGrath, Sinckler, Lawes, Stander, Webb, Te'o, Nowell.

More to follow.