British & Irish Lions Squad Analysis: Fearsome or Respectable?
Coach Andy Farrell has unveiled the British & Irish Lions squad, with a selection that largely follows expectations, although with a notable absence: that of his son, Owen. This team, while respected, does not generate the same fear as the squads of 2001 and 2013.
The absence of Owen Farrell could be good news for Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt and his team. Farrell’s presence, with his outstanding performance, had been a cause for concern for Australia for years.
Regarding the first line, the current team doesn’t instill the same fear as in the past. The Wallabies, who previously suffered in this area, are now better prepared to face the Lions, especially if Taniela Tupou shows his best form. Allan Alaalatoa, for his part, has recovered his optimal level.
While the 2001 Lions boasted renowned figures like Phil Vickery, Tom Smith and Jason Leonard, and the 2013 team had players like Alex Corbisiero and Mako Vunipola, Farrell’s team will depend on Furlong and Ellis Genge, with Zander Fagerson and Pierre Schoeman as substitutes.
In the second line, Maro Itoje is an inspired choice as a leader, but none of the other players in that position have the impact of figures like Martin Johnson or Alun-Wyn Jones.
The Lions’ third line is hardworking, but Australia could take advantage of this area. The combination of Rob Valetini, Fraser McReight and Harry Wilson was impressive in the Wallabies’ victory over England last November.Owen Farrell, a veteran of three Lions tours, would have added a genuine fear factor for the Wallabies if he had been selected.The lack of a true dominant number 8 player is also notable. Jamie Heaslip and Taulupe Faletau delivered in 2013, and Scott Quinnell was a force in 2001. Ben Earl and Jack Conan are good players, but they don’t intimidate the Wallabies.
The combination of media that Farrell chooses for the first test is of great interest, both to Schmidt and the Wallabies. Jamison Gibson-Park has stood out as number 9 in recent years, but there is no Irish option at number 10, as Farrell considers that the emerging star Sam Prendergast is not yet ready.
The Lions’ midfield could be an advantage. The Wallabies, although they have Len Ikitau and the X-factor of Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, have a combination with few matches together. The Lions could exploit Suaalii defensively.
The Lions’ three-quarter line presents interesting options, but Australia also has a number of offensive talents that could match their opponents.Owen Farrell has been excluded from his father’s Lions squad, but could still join if injuries affect the touring team.If Tom Wright plays as he did in Europe last year, the Wallabies could be the ones to open up the game to the Lions on the wings and on the counterattack.
Local bookmakers see the Lions as favorites, but Australia could be a good bet. Australian players should use this as motivation, especially after the selection of a Lions team that doesn’t match those of 2001 or 2013.
This Wallabies team sits somewhere in the middle, but should be confident of taking home the Tom Richards Cup and giving Australian rugby a boost.
Meanwhile, they will wait for Owen Farrell to go on summer vacation.
