British and Irish Lions back Jonathan Davies is looking forward to lining up alongside fellow Welsh centre Jamie Roberts against Australia on Saturday, despite the furore around his selection.
Davies has partnered Brian O'Driscoll in the first two Tests against the Wallabies, but head coach Warren Gatland controversially dropped the Irish legend in favour of the Roberts for the final Test in Sydney with Alun Wyn Jones captaining the side.
While the decision has drawn criticism from observers and Lions past, the 25-year-old Scarlets centre is positive about the change and believes that his teammate is ready for the challenge.
He told a press conference: "Jamie has a big, physical presence and gets over that gainline. He's done extremely well over the last couple of weeks to get back fit.
"To have someone like that come in shows the strength of the squad. It benefits that I've played a fair bit with him at country level, and what he brings is something different."
Gatland defended his omission of O'Driscoll, saying it was the "right rugby decision".
It brings to an end a glittering international career including four Lions tours and winning the Grand Slam with Ireland in 2009.
Chris O'Keefe
