Ken Owens is relishing the fact that many of his former adversaries on the field are now his teammates, after meeting up with The British & Irish Lions 2017 squad for the very first time on Monday at Player Administration Day.

Every playing member of Warren Gatland’s squad that will head to New Zealand later this month descended on Syon House hotel in London on Monday morning.

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Owens is one of 12 Welshmen in the touring party but the hooker is looking forward to bonding with players from across all four of the home nations on Tour.

"Meeting up with the boys, getting the kit and putting it on makes you realise this is not just a dream anymore, it's becoming a reality," said Owens.

"It's sinking in that we are three or four weeks away from a huge tour in New Zealand.

“The Irish and Scots especially I have played against a lot over the years domestically.

“You have your battles on the field but don't get to socialise and get to know them.

"It's great now to be on the same side as them and hopefully make some lifelong friends."