British & Irish Lions Squad Announcement for Australia Tour
British & Irish Lions coach Andy Farrell will announce his squad for this summer’s tour of Australia on Thursday at the O2 Arena in London, in front of 2,000 fans. There will be key decisions to make, such as the inclusion of Owen Farrell and the fitness of Caelan Doris, who could be the captain. In addition, it will be defined which unexpected players will join the team.
The most important decisions will be made later, when the initial lineups for the three matches against Australia are selected. Below, we analyze who should be part of the XV.
Possible Alignments
- Ellis Genge, England (prop)
Genge has had an outstanding season, narrowly surpassing Andrew Porter. Nicky Smith could also be considered.
- Dan Sheehan, Ireland (hooker)
Sheehan had a good Six Nations and has scored tries in club rugby this season. His physical presence will be a great asset to the team. Jamie George could compete for the position, but Sheehan stands out.
- Will Stuart, England (prop)
Stuart has improved incredibly in the last year, narrowly surpassing Tadhg Furlong. He has been fundamental to Bath, who are seeking titles.
- Maro Itoje, England (lock)
Itoje is a regular in the team. If Doris is not available, Itoje could be the captain. He is playing brilliant rugby.
- Tadgh Beirne, Ireland (second row)
Beirne will fit in well with Itoje. He is consistent and deserves a place in the team.
- Tom Curry, England (flanker)
Curry is possibly England’s most influential player in the Six Nations. He can play on both sides of the scrum.
- Jac Morgan, Wales (flanker)
Morgan was a ray of light in a disappointing Six Nations for Wales. There are several excellent candidates for this position.
- Caelan Doris, Ireland (no. 8)
If he’s in form, it’s his position. If he misses the tour due to a shoulder injury, Tom Willis, Ben Earl, Jack Conan and Taulupe Faletau could be options.
- Jamison Gibson-Park, Ireland (scrum-half)
Still one of the first names on the team sheet. His performance has been consistent.
- Finn Russell, Scotland (fly-half)
Russell is the best opening available. He was the top points scorer in the Gallagher Premiership.
- James Lowe, Ireland (wing)
Lowe has been exceptional in the Six Nations. His kicking game will also offer a lot to the Lions.
- Bundee Aki, Ireland (centre)
Aki is reliable and his play with the ball will put the Wallabies on alert.
- Huw Jones, Scotland (centre)
Jones has had a brilliant season and should surpass Garry Ringrose for this position.
- Tommy Freeman, England (wing)
Freeman seized his opportunity during the Six Nations, scoring in every match. His hat-trick against Leinster demonstrated his quality.
- Blair Kinghorn, Scotland (Fullback)
He deserves the opportunity to shine. His speed is electric and he can combine well with Russell and Jones.
