It appears the that the Lions coach will be announced by 6th September, but which players going on this summers performances will be on the Lions tour to New Zealand?
Due to the physicality of the New Zealand tour a larger squad will be needed, so here is our proposed starting XV for the first Test going on their summer performances.
(1) Loosehead Prop – JOE MARLER
There has been much recent speculation over whether he should wear the national shirt over his off field antics, but Marler is a very talented scrummager. A real machine who can carry with the ball in hand well. A real servant to Harlequins in recent years who can get you points and win you penalties at set plays whilst having that fiery ability around the park.
(2) Hooker – DYLAN HARTLEY
The New England captain under Eddie Jones has really been a marvel turning around his violent on pitch past in to a composed, true leader. Not only has his captaincy taken England to a grand slam in 2016, but it led them to be the first side to beat Australia 3-0 in Australia in a summer Test series. This makes him firm favourite to not only be the starting hooker for the Lions tour, but also perhaps the captain.
(3) Tighthead Prop – W.P.Nel
With 4 defenders beaten and an offload in the last Six Nations Nel isn’t your average prop. He can shift and backs it up with over 70% tackle success and good discipline. He is strong at set plays and offers a real threat to Faumuina or whom ever he may be up against. He is the sort of the player you want on the tour; someone who can control and apply power up front, but can move it around in broken play as well.
