As many expected, Alun Wyn Jones will captain the 2021 British and Irish Lions tour as they take on Japan and then World Champions South Africa this summer. Much media hype and speculation surrounded the announcement but as a three-tour veteran, which includes experience of leading the triumphant third test in 2013 against Australia the Welsh captain’s selection was not a huge surprise.

As International Rugby begins to grab the attention of the sporting public, Sport Science Agency takes a look at perhaps the most under developed research/support areas of modern professional sport, the role of the Captain.