Former England and Lions scrum-half Ben Youngs has revealed his choice for the captaincy of the British & Irish Lions ahead of their anticipated 2025 tour of Australia.
The Lions’ extensive nine-match schedule has been officially confirmed, commencing on Wednesday, 2 July, with a showdown against the Queensland Reds in Brisbane. This tour marks the Lions’ return to Australia since their triumphant 2-1 series victory in 2013.
Of notable significance is the Lions’ advantageous preparation period, touted as the lengthiest in recent memory. This extended preparation owes credit to the collaborative efforts of Premiership Rugby and the United Rugby Championship. As part of their rigorous preparations, the Lions are slated to contest a warm-up fixture against a combined Australia and New Zealand ensemble in Adelaide.
Eager to secure their first tour triumph since overcoming the Wallabies a decade ago, the Lions are steadfast in their determination to make this upcoming campaign a resounding success. Their most recent tour saw them narrowly edged out 2-1 in South Africa, following a drawn series in New Zealand in 2017.
In a departure from convention, Youngs has opted for Irish number 8 Caelan Doris to lead the Lions on their journey Down Under, eschewing the selection of an English candidate for the prestigious role.
British and Irish Lions’ 2025 tour of Australia
2 July: Queensland Reds (Brisbane)
5 July: Waratahs (Sydney)
9 July: Brumbies (Canberra)
12 July: Invitational Australia and New Zealand team (Adelaide)
19 July: First Test vs Australia (Brisbane)
22 July: Melbourne Rebels (Melbourne)
26 July: Second Test vs Australia (Melbourne)
2 August: Third Test vs Australia (Sydney)
Pundit Arena’s WORST LIONS PLAYERS:
5 – Tyrone Howe
PA: “When Dan Luger pulled out with an injury a strange call-up was made by Graham Henry in 2001. A career blighted by injury, only managing 14 caps for Ireland he must count himself lucky to have represented the Lions.”
RUCK: The 30-year-old, who had only won six caps for Ireland at the time, was pencilled in on the Lions’ standby list following some impressive Heineken Cup displays for Ulster. Can’t really argue with what PA have said.
VERDICT: Justified