The British and Irish Lions tour of Australia concluded. Despite the defeat in the last of the ten scheduled matches, the psychological challenge of facing the third test, with the series already defined 2-0, was notable.
The Wallabies showed their best game in the last match, achieving a resounding 22-12 victory in adverse weather conditions in Sydney. The match was interrupted by an electrical storm that flooded the field with rain during the second half.
With the tour finished, the ideal team of the series is presented.
Ideal Series Team
FULLBACK: TOM WRIGHT
The Australian fullback surpasses Hugo Keenan, despite the Irishman’s crucial try at the MCG. Wright’s work throughout the three tests, with 85 meters more than Keenan and beating seven defenders, gives him the edge. Furthermore, his performance in the second test was remarkable.RIGHT WING: MAX JORGENSEN
Jorgensen, 20 years old, shone in the three matches for Australia, with memorable tries and proving to be one of the most elusive players. In the third test, he ran 94 meters in eight runs, made three clean breaks and beat four defenders.OUTSIDE CENTRE: HUW JONES
Jones consolidated his position as the Lions’ number 13 center, taking advantage of Garry Ringrose’s situation. He scored a try in the second test and generated defensive problems for Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii. The Australian showed his class with assists in tests two and three.INSIDE CENTRE: LEN IKITAU
Ikitau put in effort in the carries against the defense. His best performance was in Sydney, with 13 runs and 29 meters in difficult conditions. Sione Tuipulotu had a great first test, while Bundee Aki had a complicated night.LEFT WING: JAMES LOWE
Lowe is noted for his assistance 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 selection could have been different if Dylan Pietsch had played all three tests.FLY-HALF: FINN RUSSELL
Russell, with an exceptional game, outperformed Tom Lynagh in the first two tests. Behind a dominant pack, his passing game was outstanding. He made important kicks and was key in Sione Tuipulotu’s try in Brisbane, deserving of the Player of the Series award.SCRUM-HALF: JAMISON GIBSON-PARK
Gibson-Park had a brilliant series, controlling the pace with precision. His speed and accuracy were fundamental for Russell. Tate McDermott, from the Wallabies, also had a great impact from the bench and played on the wing.NO. 8: JACK CONAN
Conan had a prominent participation in the three tests, with 24 tackles in the victory of the second test. He also assisted in a try and was consistent on both sides of the field. Harry Wilson was not surpassed, but Conan had greater contributions.NO. 7: TOM CURRY
Curry established himself as one of the most outstanding players, with a try in the first two tests. His defensive tackle on Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii in Melbourne was crucial. Fraser McReight also performed well for Australia.NO. 6: TADHG BEIRNE
Beirne was named player of the series, being a force in attack and defense. He was the best player in Brisbane and contributed constantly. His try in Melbourne was outstanding.NO. 5: WILL SKELTON
Skelton was key to the change in the Wallabies’ fortunes. The team was 14 points up with him on the field during tests two and three. He was a challenge for the Lions, and was key to solidifying the Wallabies’ scrum.NO. 4: MARO ITOJE
Itoje became the second winning captain of the Lions this century. He was outstanding in the first two tests, winning the player of the match award at the MCG. His tour ended with a HIA in Sydney.NO. 3: TADHG FURLONG
Furlong established himself as one of the best in his position, despite the injuries. His game was brilliant and showed his skill. Allan Alaalatoa also performed well for the Wallabies.NO. 2: DAN SHEEHAN
Sheehan was sensational in the first two tests, with intelligent play. His speed, physique, and hard work are the model for the modern hooker. He scored tries and ran 50 meters in Brisbane.NO. 1: JAMES SLIPPER
Slipper continues to perform at test level, being a rock for Australia. Vital for the game in Brisbane and Melbourne. Andy Farrell made a mistake by not including Genge in Sydney.Bundee Aki’s wife gave birth in a car before the first test
Andy Farrell’s case to return as British and Irish Lions coach
British and Irish Lions player ratings after defeat in third test against Australia
Australia 22-12 British and Irish Lions – Third Test Match Report
