Gold tips O'Connell to lead the Lions

South Africa's forwards coach Gary Gold is expecting a tough tour against the British and Irish Lions in 2009, and has tipped Ireland's Paul O'Connell to captain the side.

The two sides will play three Tests on South African soil in June and July.

And while the Lions endured a torrid time against New Zealand on their last tour - they were beaten 3-0 by the All Blacks in 2005 - Peter De Villiers' assistant knows it will not be easy.

'The Lions will have enough talent for us to take them very seriously,' Gold told newspaper Die Burger.

'I would agree most of the Lions players would come from within Ireland and Wales' ranks. There are also individuals in the England and Scotland teams that can bolster the squad.

'Paul O'Connell may be the captain. He will definitely make Ireland's side and forms a formidable lock pairing with Donncha O'Callaghan.

'The locks will be good in the air and we are set to play with straight-arm penalties, so I expect a greater emphasis on line-outs than in the Super 14.

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'They also have a lot of options at half-back. I have a high regard for Dwayne Peel (Wales), but expect Mike Blair (Scotland) to start. Ronan O'Gara will probably be used at fly-half due to his experience.

'I also rate James Hook (Wales) very highly.'

Gold though is optimistic South Africa can match the Lions in most areas, but has warned fans not to expect a walkover.

He added: 'The Lions will have a lot of depth among their loose forwards, but we also have an embarrassment of riches in that area.

'But they will be able to field a formidable side. They can pick some good combinations and whatever 22 they come up with will be a strong one. There will be no significant weaknesses.'