#1. Maro Itoje
Off The Ball (8.5): Itoje showed the form that he was in in the World Cup, back when he was heavily touted as a Lions captain. He was incredibly impactful on a leadership basis, making his presence known physically and lifting the players in the second half. His defending at the lineout and the base of the ruck in particular were outstanding.
Rugby Pass (8): “Was all over the opposition lineout and was a persistent nuisance in the tight. Had no less than four turnovers to his name after 80 minutes.”
Wales Online (9): “Anyone wanting an example of how to play in adversity need look no further than this effort from Itjoe. The England international did all he could to pull the Lions back into the contest.”
WORST PLAYERS:
#3. Iain Henderson
Telegraph (6): “Part of a pack that was overwhelmed by South Africa’s opening blast.”
Wales Online (5): “South Africa A were relentlessly physical and Henderson wasn’t overly conspicuous, with just one metre made from five carries and only two tackles. The cavalry is arriving in the shape of Alun Wyn Jones, though.”
Pundit Arena (6): “The Ulsterman had a quiet evening in Cape Town, and with the return of Alun Wyn Jones, a starting test place may now be out of Henderson’s reach.”
Off The Ball (6): “After a great game in his last outing to being almost anonymous in this one, he will be worried about his place in the starting XV for the tests, particularly with the return of Alun Wyn Jones.”