What does an F1 driver and a razor blade have in common? Both are used only a handful of times and then disposed of quickly when they lose their edge.

Or at least that seems to be the hot trend at the moment. The cut-throat world of Formula One drew blood again this week as Jack Doohan was slashed by Alpine after just six races.

His replacement, Franco Colapinto, has five Grands Prix to prove he can deliver a clean finish.

Realistically, the 21-year-old Argentine will see his career in motorsport's premier competition washed away for good if he doesn't make this a success.

Three costly crashes in nine races for Williams last year left his stock hanging in the balance. Team principals are looking for the very best a man can get so he can't afford any blunt showings.

Colapinto has to remain sharp if he wants to stay in the cabinet altogether. Once you're left in the drawer, you rarely get picked up again.

Itoje's year

WHAT a year it's been for Maro Itoje - the new Lions skipper.

When Steve Borthwick stripped Jamie George of the England captaincy in January, few could foresee how the next four months would unfold.

Itoje isn't flashy but he's a reliable man who is willing to do the dirty work and lead by example.