Dylan Hartley names his five ‘certainties’ for 2021 Lions XV

Writing in his column for The Telegraph over the last few months, these five have been singled out for praise by the former hooker.

Here's who Hartley believes is a certainty for Warren Gatland's XV this summer.

Hartley said: "At 30 years old with 50 caps, he has reached a good blend. There is a balance between his set-piece excellence and some nice little touches. I would say he is the first hooker Warren Gatland will pick for the Lions tour next year and there is nobody really challenging him."

Hartley said: " He’s diligent off the field, which I was. He has a strong voice, which you need when talking to a group of men. He’s a world-class player. For me, he’d be the first name on the team-sheet at 10 or 12… even six or eight."

Hartley said: ""Alun Wyn is probably the front-runner at the moment but there's lots to happen between now and the announcement of the squad."

Hartley said: “Curry has been absolutely magnificent for England in the last two years. Just his ball-carrying, his tackling, he’s cleaning out rucks…he can do everything.”

Hartley said: "I am sure Maro could be captain of England, and maybe the Lions."