Rugby Union: Who's not going

Jonathan Davies: In the mid-1980s, no selector would have dared pick a Lions party without him. Times change, though. For all his experience as a league professional, Davies is considered to be past his sell-by date.

Arwel Thomas: Outside-halves have always used wit rather than weight to make their marks. After all, Barry John and Phil Bennett were hardly the worst.

Colin Charvis: Charvis may lack polish but when it comes to the "bosh", the Swansea flanker is up there with the heavyweights.

Jon Sleightholme: Openings will be hard to prise in South Africa and, as the Lions will rue every one they waste, England's most dangerous finisher can consider himself unfortunate.

Tony Underwood: His pace makes him a danger to the tightest and most organised of defences. Not the most secure wing, but neither was brother Rory.

Phil de Glanville: Last season, considered the best centre in Britain. The return of Gibbs and Bateman from rugby league has increased the competition, but not by that much.