Former Scotland skipper Tom Smith is tipping Northampton tight-head prop Euan Murray to be a starter for Ian McGeechan?s Lions when the tourists land in South Africa.

Smith, who became the first Scot to play in six consecutive Lions tests when he featured in South Africa in 1997 and Australia in 2001, is convinced Murray will beat off competition from one-time England skipper Phil Vickery for a starting berth in the first test on June 20 in Durban.

Murray is one of only two Scotland internationals, the other being Nathan Hines, that have been selected for the Lions tour.

"Euan's had a good season and he has definitely pushed on from last season," said Murray. "When you come to a big club it takes a little while to settle down, but he's really doing well.

"After the November games for Scotland I think he gained a lot of confidence and he's definitely in there as a probable Lions starter.

"A lot of things can happen on a Lions tour but if you can yourself fit and well and in contention come the first test, and then you're in.

"Part of its luck and part of its playing well, but I think Euan will be pushing all the other guys for a starting spot."