Mack Hansen in doubt for the first Lions Test vs. Australia

Mack Hansen, in doubt for the first British & Irish Lions test

British & Irish Lions winger Mack Hansen is a doubt for the first test against Australia on Saturday, after suffering a foot injury against the Australia-New Zealand Invitational on Saturday. Hansen did not participate in the full training on Tuesday, a day after Scottish winger Darcy Graham was added to the Lions squad from New Zealand.

He injured his foot in the match, I don’t think it’s anything serious, but he’s been treated today. We hope he integrates fully quite quickly. It’s nothing that worries us too much, but we have to make sure we have enough players in training. But it doesn’t seem too serious. Anyone who hasn’t trained fully today is a doubt, but he’s definitely not ruled out.

Richard Wigglesworth, Lions assistant coach

Hansen adds to the concerns of the Lions’ attacking line after injuries to fullback Blair Kinghorn and center Garry Ringrose. The fullback Elliot Daly left Australia after being ruled out of the series with a broken arm. Hugo Keenan, who started in the 48-0 thrashing of AUNZ at the Adelaide Oval, is expected to start at fullback for the Lions, with Marcus Smith available to cover from the bench. The opening/center Owen Farrell is another option in the midfield for coach Andy Farrell, who already has Bundee Aki, Sione Tuipulotu and Huw Jones in his team. Owen Farrell was solid in his brief 30-minute appearance at inside center against AUNZ, and Wigglesworth said he was enjoying working with the former England captain.

It’s been great, as we knew it would be. Not everyone knew it, but we did. Everyone knows how good he is, the influence he has, his knowledge and how he helps other people improve. He’s the influential Owen we know and love.

Richard Wigglesworth, Lions assistant coach