Sam Warburton: Gatland Jnr will make it tough for Lions

British and Irish Lions captain Sam Warburton says Bryn Gatland won't give his father's side an easy ride in the opening warm-up game.

Gatland Junior is set to play fly-half for the New Zealand Provincial Barbarians when they face the Lions on Saturday, coached by his father, Warren.

The 22-year-old has enjoyed a breakthrough year for the Blues in Super Rugby, earning him the call for the tour opener.

Warburton is no stranger to the younger Gatland, as the playmaker spent time working with the Wales squad when younger.

The Lions have landed in New Zealand. Credit: PA

"I've known Bryn now for years," said Warburton.

"He was coming in to kick with the Wales squad six, seven years ago.

"The Welsh lads know him well, so I'm looking forward to coming up against him and shaking hands after the game.

"He's shown a lot of courage in the past and will definitely do the same again now."

Gatland's son slotted the winning drop-goal in a 17-14 victory over Otago in October that saw North Harbour promoted to the Mitre 10 Cup Premiership.

The increasingly-composed fly-half attended Hamilton Boys' High School just like his father, and has now started to make his mark with the Blues.

Warburton hailed Bryn Gatland's nerve for landing that pressure drop-goal last year, and insisted the Lions can expect more of the same in Saturday's tour opener in Whangarei.

Warren Gatland will face his son on Saturday. Credit: PA

"I saw Bryn play last year as well as this," said Warburton.

"I thought he showed a lot of courage for that drop-goal last year to win.

"You have to give him a lot of credit for that.

"He's in a good bloodline as well and has a lot of potential.

"It's a great achievement for him to be in this position."