#20. Ken Owens (Wales) – Found redemption in the third test, scoring a crucial try and being inch perfect with his lineout throws.
#19. Bundee Aki (Ireland) – The powerhouse proved to be a great tourist and he didn’t let anybody down on the field.
#18. Marcus Smith (England) – Despite only making one appearance after being called-up, the English youngster made an impactful debut against the Stormers. The international rookie, who made nine tackles and shone with the ball in hand, producing a trademark goose step late on. Seven successful conversions have helped push him into the equation to face South Africa with fitness concerns elsewhere at fly-half – but it wasn’t to be.
Embed from Getty Images#17. Duhan van de Merwe (Scotland) – He offered a physical presence in the warm-up matches but with the speed, agility and kicking game of the Springbok back three, the tests proved a difficult learning curve.
#16. Kyle Sinckler (England) – Despite having not originally made the squad, Sinckler has been in excellent form out in South Africa.
#15. Mako Vunipola (England) – The loosehead has grown into the tour and played a starring role off the bench as the Lions won the first test.
#14. Conor Murray (Ireland) – Mixed bag throughout the tour but box-kicked well when he was on the field.
#13. Hamish Watson (Scotland) – Any suggestion the Scot is too small – which really shouldn’t be taken too seriously if you’ve been watching international for the last two years – have been completely dismissed.
Embed from Getty Images#12. Finn Russell (Scotland) – A player who has been hurt by the isolations due to Covid and injury since the Lions arrived in South Africa. Flashed a lot of his potential against the Sigma Lions, and impressed for the Lions in the third test.
#11. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland) – The versatile lock/blindside has looked comfortable in a red jersey and has brought a presence at the breakdown that the Lions have missed in matches without him.