The front-row pair have both been left out of the starting line-up for the Lions' latest tour match against Western Province, with Andrew Sheridan, Matthew Rees and Phil Vickery in their positions.

That means the only other chance of some action for the duo is the game against a Coastal XV on Tuesday - less than four days before the first Test in Durban.

Murray, thought to be the favourite for the No.3 shirt before the tour started, and Ford - called up in place of injured Ireland hooker Jerry Flannery - have started just one game, against the Cheetahs last week.

Mike Blair has also only had one chance to prove his worth to the selectors, in the opening game against a Royal XV.

The Scotland captain is also on the bench against Western Province and is also likely to start the game on Tuesday. Mike Phillips is almost certain to be the Test scrum-half with Harry Ellis his reserve.

However, Scotland lock Nathan Hines looks in good shape for a crack at the Test squad, and a good performance against Western province could see him partner Paul O'Connell in the second row - or at least be one of the replacements.