Now the 30-year-old prop, who is equally at home on either side of the scrum, is aiming to keep his wining sequence going in Hong Kong and Australia.
"I've been on tour before and I know how amazing it can be. Lions' tours are so special; it doesn't really make much sense, but it just comes together in a magical way," said Stevens.
"You have that mutual respect for each other; players you have played against or alongside, players of real calibre are thrown together and with very little time. It's a very special experience.
"It's testament to the team here at Saracens that I've been included, and I have to thank a special group of people for that, the players, the coaches, the medical and backroom staff and the fans who have all helped.
"I have worked hard this year, but it's been a collective effort throughout. I didn't expect to get the chance to play international rugby again.
"I obviously decided not to represent England. I had my reasons and it was the most difficult decision I've ever had to make as a rugby player, but this is a one off experience that you just can't turn down.
"It's such a huge honour and privilege to play for the British & Irish Lions I just couldn't refuse the chance to do so."
Stevens will be one of 10 Lions on club duty in the Aviva Premiership semi-finals this weekend when table-topping Saracens host Northampton Saints. That means it could be a testing afternoon for Saints skipper and hooker Dylan Hartley potentially packing down against Lions props Mako Vunipola and Stevens
"It's great that Owen Farrell and Mako have been included in the Lions squad. Speaking as a front rower, Mako is a very special player - he makes all us props look pedestrian with his ability with ball in hand and his footwork," said Stevens.
"I remember my first tour in 2005, all us young players were sponges; taking in as much as we could from some fantastic players and professionals. I'm sure Mako will be the same and he deserves his chance."
.jpg)
