MARO Itoje has one advantage over Alun Wyn Jones when it comes to Test selection for the Lions. The England lock is as sure as any player can be of his place in the starting XV.
Very few others can be as sure. Anthony Watson on the right wing, Robbie Henshaw at inside centre, Tadhg Furlong at tighthead, Taulupe Faletau at No.8 have all earned the right to belong in such exalted company as has James Ryan. And therein lies the rub for Jones when it comes to the captaincy.
Assuming he proves none the worse for the head blow which has kept him inactive for the last six weeks, Ryan would surely...