'There are going to be a lot of unlucky players' - Steve Tandy

Following Sunday's selection meeting, Warren Gatland and his staff have pretty much nailed down their matchday 23 for the opening test against the Springboks on Satuday. 

"We will probably confirm things today or tomorrow," defence coach Steve Tandy said when asked when the players would be told who has made the cut.

'Then it will be up to Gats [Warren Gatland] to feel when it is appropriate' Tandy added.

The Lions are in a good space player-wise ahead of the opening test with Alun Wyn Jones featuring in the final 30 minutes in the Lions final preparation against the Stormers with Finn Russell the only player set to miss the opener through injury. 

Gatland explained after the win over the Stormers that the two biggest selection calls would come in the back row and outside backs respectively.

"There are going to be massive decisions. There are going to be a lot of unlucky players, but they represent the Lions." Tandy said on Monday.

"We had an initial selection process last night, which was a long one in fairness, just covering all bases.

"There will be bitter disappointment, but I believe that within this squad there is such a tight connection that everyone will be geared-up to winning that first Test whether you are in the 23 or not.

Tandy explained that narrowing the team down to 23 players was one of the toughest things he has had to do as a coach and that the time just flew by. 

"It was a good hour and a half, maybe a bit longer. It was a good initial meeting and we were becoming clearer and clearer as we went along.

"We will confirm it up and Gats will announce it at an appropriate time.

"It was one of the toughest things that I have been invoiced in as so many people have put their hands up in terms of putting their best foot forward."

"I think it is just confirming. It was really robust and at the end of the day the time flew by around selection. There are probably one or two things to firm up, but the majority is probably done."

The British and Irish Lions will announce their team to face the Springboks on Thursday with the hosts naming their side on Wednesday.