Sunday 2 July 2017 12:31, UK
Maro Itoje has the "humility" to remain grounded even after his impressive showing against the All Blacks, according to Lions assistant coach Graham Rowntree.
Itoje was one of three players drafted into Warren Gatland's starting line-up for the second Test in Wellington and the England lock produced a fine performance to help the tourists claim a thrilling 24-21 victory at the Westpac Stadium.
Thousands of Lions supporters chanted the Saracen's name at the end of the match to the tune of the White Stripes' 'Seven Nation Army' but Rowntree says the 22-year-old will not allow his cult status to go to this head.
"Maro's biggest quality is humility and how humble he is and how he is continually striving to get better," said Rowntree.
"He was calling the lineout on Saturday. He is still a young man.
"It's a pivotal Test and he is in there calling the lineout on top of everything else he is doing in the game."
The Lions capitalised on a first-half red card for Sonny Bill Williams to claim their first victory over the All Blacks since 1993, thanks to tries from Taulupe Faletau and Conor Murray.
Itoje produced a dominant performance in the lineout and Rowntree expects the youngster to go from strength to strength as his career progresses.
"You can't deny his game impact, his physicality. I thought he brought all that," Rowntree said.
"And I like his composure. He is continually striving to get better, asking everyone, 'How can I get better?' He will go a long way."
