Dwayne Peel: Has seen off the challenge of Matt Dawson for the Test No9 jersey and impressed with his eye for the gap and speed of pass. Could be the next Rob Howley.
Neil Back: Who says he is too old at 36? Helped change New Zealand's view of the Lions at the breakdown against Wellington and is the man to go head-to-head with Richie McCaw in the Test matches.
THE POSSIBLES Ben Kay: Has been the best middle-line jumper and his standing has increased since the premature departure of Malcolm O'Kelly. He's big enough to dominate the All Blacks but needs to become more assertive.
Julian White: A bad disciplinary record makes him a liability and he could still lose it at any time. If he can control that temper, he is the key to the Lions dominating the scrum.
Jonny Wilkinson: He has been far from convincing so far and needs more matches but will not get them before the First Test.
Gareth Thomas: Alfie, as he prefers to be known, is a one-off. His bubbling enthusiasm makes up for technical deficiencies and his presence adds a feelgood factor to the team. He is essential to the Test series campaign.
Martin Corry: Expected to be Lawrence Dallalgio's shadow but he has emerged as a key man in the back row and is growing in confidence as he realises that the No8 jersey really is his to lose.
