INFLUENTIAL scrum-half Francois Hougaard felt the full force from world champions New Zealand in last autumn’s Rugby Championship.

And the Worcester Warriors ace believes team-mate Ben Te’o should relish the challenge of coming face to face with the All Blacks with the British and Irish Lions this summer.

England international Te’o was among the 37-man strong Lions squad who assembled for their first team photograph on Monday.

The squad met at London's Syon Park Hotel where Te’o and the other Lions were issued with training kit ahead of the start of the series, which begins on June 3.

“Everyone is wishing Ben well – it’s a massive privilege for him,” said Hougaard.

“Just to be in the Lions squad is unbelievable.

“I got the opportunity to play against the Lions for the King’s before it became the franchise.

“Just playing against the Lions was unbelievable because it was an opportunity you are not going to get too often because they tour only once every 12 years.”

Hougaard was part of the Springboks squad crushed 57-15 by the All Blacks in Durban last October.

It was the Springboks’ biggest-ever losing margin on home soil.

“The All Blacks are a different beast when playing in New Zealand,” said Hougaard.

“For instance, playing Crusaders away from their home is one thing because they are a different team when they play at home.

“That’s the same mentality with the All Blacks.

“The All Blacks are unbelievably talented and every player understands their direction.

“They play a great brand of rugby and I think that’s why there are the best team in the world.”

Auckland-born Te’o will fly out with the Lions on May 29 as they prepare for the first of three Tests against world champions on June 24.

It’s a daunting prospect for the Lions who are chasing a first series triumph in New Zealand since 1971.

“The Lions have got a massive challenge ahead but nothing is impossible and it’s going to be difficult for them,” admitted Hougaard.

“The Lions players haven’t played together yet and the All Blacks players are used to each other.

“We play rugby for challenges and there’s nothing better than testing yourself against the best and that’s exactly what the Lions are going to do.”

Hougaard will be hoping to cement his place in the Springboks side this summer in readiness for the challenge of facing New Zealand in the Rugby Championship this autumn.

“I think it must be an unreal feeling for Ben – especially being on the Lions tour and all the hype around it," said Hougaard.

"It must be fantastic for him and we all wish him well.”