Kyle Sinckler enjoyed a whirlwind season when he went from uncapped to Lions Test player in New Zealand – and according to England legend Jason Leonard his next challenge is maintaining that level for entire games.

The 24-year-old made a massive impact on the international scene after first getting an opportunity last November against South Africa.

From there he established himself as Dan Cole’s back-up in the England tighthead role, but by the time the Lions Tour came around, he had leapfrogged Cole to be used as a replacement in all three Tests as the Lions drew with New Zealand.

And while Sinckler has clearly developed at a rapid pace, Leonard – England’s all-time most capped player – believes that Sinckler can only improve, particularly with the guidance of Harlequins teammate and former Lion Adam Jones.

He said: “I think Kyle Sinckler is a fantastic talent, all he has to do is make sure he has consistency in his game. You see him come in and out of games, and that happens to young players.

“He seems up for it one minute, but then misses a chunk of it and then later on does something brilliant. Working with someone like Adam Jones is going to help him massively.

“Jones will tell him, it is the consistency he needs. If he gets the ball in his hands, he is as quick as a back, he just has to make sure the rest of his game is at such a high level.

“I think the role of a prop has changed over the years, they are more mobile now and far more skilled with the ball in their hands.

“If you like at Mako Vunipola and Kyle Sinckler, they are great players, but it always going to be about players who can do their job.

“I don’t care what anyone says, you might be the best ball-handler in the world but if you can’t scrummage, tackle or lift in the line-out then you are not going to get picked.”

Sinckler will be targeting the November international as the chance to establish himself at first choice for England, as well as earning a first Test start.

Eddie Jones’ side will take on Australia, Samoa and Argentina, looking to build on a strong summer tour away to the Pumas.

And for those who missed that tour while they were on Lions duty – including Sinckler, this November will be a crucial period two years out from the World Cup in Japan, according to Leonard.

Ealing Times: Leonard was speaking at the launch of Rugby Centurions, where he was joined by rugby legends Martyn Williams (left), John Smit (right) and Bryan Habana (far right) Leonard was speaking at the launch of Rugby Centurions, where he was joined by rugby legends Martyn Williams (left), John Smit (right) and Bryan Habana (far right)

He added: “I don’t think now is the time to start focussing on the Rugby World Cup. There is still a lot of rugby to be played before it comes around.

“It will come around soon enough, don’t worry about that. But I think someone who wants to have a serious chance needs to hit the ground running after the Lions Tour.

“They need to perform in the big games that matter, like the European games and then you have autumn internationals and the Six Nations.

“There is a lot of rugby to be played, so while players and coaches have an eye on the future everyone needs to get their ducks in a row.”

The Rugby Centurions have inspired others through their passion, integrity and discipline on the field, and now their legacy will live on through this extraordinary association. For more information on Rugby Centurions and the Gala Dinner on November 23 at Hilton Metropole; visit: www.rugbycenturions.com