Lukhanyo Am warns Lions of physical battle in second Test

South Africa centre Lukhanyo Am is confident that the Springboks will be able to take the physical challenge to the British and Irish Lions in the second Test at Cape Town Stadium on Saturday.

The Springboks had a 12-3 lead in the opening half of first Test last weekend but they allowed things to slip after the break as Warren Gatland's men went on to complete a 22-17 victory to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

The series kick-started with Am producing a thundering hit on Elliot Daly and the 27-year-old is expecting another 'physical battle' in the second Test.

“It was the first Test of the series and the emotions were there, it was intentional to set the standards," said Am on his hit on Elliot Daly.

“As a team we have always had a great defensive mindset and it is something we are very proud of.

“This weekend it will be another physical battle we will be taking on.”

With the series on line, Am, who guided South Africa A to a victory over Lions earlier in the month said the Springboks will be adaptive to any changes in the tactics from the visitors.

“We are very good at adapting and reading what is happening on the field; it is something we will be aware of during the game,” said Am.

“You can never know their plans, but I think we are very good at adapting and reading what is happening on the field.

“We obviously expect some sort of a change because of the personnel that they have. That’s something we’re preparing for and will be aware of during the game.”