Lions vs Australia: ESPN’s Ideal XV After the Epic Series

The British and Irish Lions tour of Australia has concluded. Despite the defeat in the last match of a ten-match schedule, the psychological challenge of facing the third test against the Wallabies, with the series already defined 2-0, was considerable. Australia, with an outstanding performance, took the victory 22-12 in adverse conditions in Sydney. The match was interrupted by an electrical storm that caused a delay of 37 minutes at the beginning of the second half, with heavy rains that flooded the field. This stormy closure put an end to a dramatic tour, with eight victories for the Lions, marked by defeats in the first match against Argentina and in the final test. Here’s the selected series team:

British & Irish Lions’ Tom Curry battles with Australia’s Harry Wilson, center, Taniela Tupou, left, and Len Ikitau, rightDefender: Tom WrightWright surpasses Hugo Keenan, despite the Irishman’s decisive try at the MCG. Wright’s work during the three tests, with 85 meters more than Keenan and seven defenders beaten, gives him the lead. Furthermore, his performance in the second test was outstanding.Right wing: Max JorgensenJorgensen, 20, had three spectacular matches for Australia, with memorable tries in the first and third tests, proving to be one of the most elusive players. In the third test, he ran 94 meters in eight runs, achieved three clean breaks and beat four defenders.

Outside center: Huw Jones

Jones took possession of the number 13 jersey for the Lions, taking advantage of Garry Ringrose’s concussion. He scored a try in the second test and created defensive problems for Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii. The Australian showed his class with assists in the second and third tests, although he is still in the process of defensive learning.

Inside Center: Len Ikitau

Ikitau faced an intense defense, giving his best in the last match with 13 runs for 29 meters in Sydney. Sione Tuipulotu had a great first test, while Bundee Aki had a difficult night.Left wing: James LoweLowe is selected for his assist in Tadhg Beirne’s try in the second test. His performance was mixed in the first two tests, before being replaced by Blair Kinghorn in Sydney. The choice could have been different if the Wallabies’ Dylan Pietsch had played all three tests.Opening: Finn RussellRussell, the Scottish star, dominated in the first two tests. His passing game was exceptional and he made crucial kicks in Melbourne. Although he had a difficult final test in Sydney, his work was already done. His pass for Sione Tuipulotu’s try in Brisbane was a work of art, deserving of the Player of the Series award.

Scrum-half: Jamison Gibson-Park

Gibson-Park controlled the pace of the game with precision and speed, making the right decisions in each match. Tate McDermott, of the Wallabies, also made important contributions, including playing on the wing.No. 8: Jack ConanConan had outstanding performances in the three tests, with 24 tackles in the victory of the second test. He also assisted in a try in Melbourne, with a consistent performance on both sides of the field. Harry Wilson was not surpassed, but Conan had better contributions.No. 7: Tom CurryCurry proved his worth and was one of the most outstanding players of the series. He played all three tests and scored tries in the first and second, with crucial defense in Melbourne. Fraser McReight was also strong for Australia, but Curry stood out.No. 6: Tadhg BeirneBeirne was named player of the series. His performance in attack and defense was key, being the man of the match in Brisbane and a constant contributor in all three matches.No. 5: Will SkeltonSkelton was fundamental in the transformation of the Wallabies, with a dominant performance on the field. He provoked his opponents and was key to the solidity of the scrum in Melbourne and Sydney.No. 4: Maro ItojeItoje cemented his place in rugby history, being the second winning captain of the Lions in this century. His performance was excellent in the first two tests, with great defensive work and in the ball game.No. 3: Tadhg FurlongFurlong proved to be one of the best pillars of the game. Allan Alaalatoa also played an important role for the Wallabies, and more was expected of Taniela Tupou, who shone in Sydney.No. 2: Dan SheehanSheehan was sensational in the first two tests, with exceptional work in the field. His speed, physique and work rate define him as the prototype of the modern hooker. He scored tries in the first and second tests, and ran 50 meters in Brisbane.No. 1: James SlipperSlipper, an Australian rugby veteran, was a rock for Australia in the three tests. His contribution was vital in the ball game and in defense. Andy Farrell’s decision to promote Andrew Porter was key in Melbourne, but not including Genge in Sydney was a mistake.