Lion Best driven to new heights with Ireland

British & Irish Lion Rory Best believes competition can only make him stronger after backing Ireland’s front-row depth.

The 31-year-old was part of an immense group with the Lions last summer, vying for the No.2 spot with Richard Hibbard and Tom Youngs.

Such was the strength in depth that Best had to time-share Down Under, making four appearances in total as Hibbard and Youngs shared Test duty.

And with the Ulster hooker now back in an emerald green shirt ahead of a clash with Scotland on Sunday, he insists standards have never been higher in the Ireland camp.

“Competition for places drives everyone on and hopefully raises standards across the board,” said Best.

“When we're training in the scrum now, if you don't get it right, you're going to get done and that's important.

“It obviously brings competition for places, which is good for everyone.

“From that side of things it's great to see, especially with their age profile too, these guys are young and have a fantastic future ahead of them.”