Lions starting XV to face Australia 'leaked' days before first test

Tuesday, 15 July 2025 at 09:29

byRugby Rucker

Andy Farrell will lead the British & Irish Lions into battle for the very first time on Saturday, as his side faces the Wallabies in the opening Test of the 2025 Tour.

RUCK understands that the players were informed of the starting XV earlier today — with Wales powerhouse Jac Morgan beating out fierce competition to land the coveted No.7 jersey. The flanker has been a standout in training and now gets the nod to start in Brisbane.

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But when it comes to the bench, the door remains open.

The coaching staff are reportedly keeping players guessing on final replacements — a smart tactic to keep intensity high heading into the first clash of the series.

“It has been done, I believe,” said Lions assistant coach Richard Wigglesworth yesterday. “We would be lying if we said it was easy.

"There have been two or three conversations, we’ve picked (the team) and we will tell the lads tomorrow.

‘Nothing has been announced, so it’s always subject to change in terms of how they’ve trained and what that’s looked like. That’s why these things are kept back a bit. It’s still not been announced so who knows, we could go back and we’re having another one!’"

Despite the smokescreen, all signs point to the coaches locking in their final decisions earlier this week — prioritising cohesion, clarity, and combinations ahead of the opening clash at Suncorp Stadium.

? First Test: All you need to know

? Date: Saturday, July 19
? Kick-off: 11am (BST)
? TV: Sky Sports Main Event & Sky Sports Action (rebranded as Sky Sports The Lions for Test weekends)
? Streaming: Sky Sports app | NOW Day Pass or Monthly Pass
? Radio: talkSPORT (featuring Eddie Jones, Ben Kay, Gordon D’Arcy, Alex Cuthbert, Jim Hamilton, Rocky Clark & Matt Giteau)
?️ Welsh-language commentary: BBC Radio Wales

?️ Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

A 52,500-capacity fortress known as "The Cauldron", Suncorp has long been one of the most intimidating venues in world rugby. Home to the Queensland Reds, it’s often likened to Cardiff’s Principality Stadium for sheer atmosphere. Expect it to be rocking.

Expected Lions Starting XV vs Wallabies

Loosehead Prop: Ellis Genge (England)

The fiery loosehead prop and cult hero, Genge is known for his explosive power, relentless work rate, and leadership on the pitch. A cornerstone of England’s front row, he’s never shy of a big hit or a big moment.

Hooker: Dan Sheehan (Ireland)

A dynamic hooker with sharp lineout throwing and excellent mobility around the park. Sheehan has been a revelation for Ireland, combining physicality with smart decision-making.

Tighthead Prop: Tadhg Furlong (Ireland)

One of the world’s best tightheads, Furlong blends brute strength with surprising agility. His scrummaging anchors the Lions’ front row, while his ball-carrying offers go-forward momentum.

Lock: Maro Itoje (England)

The Lions’ inspirational lock and one of rugby’s most intelligent players. Itoje’s athleticism, breakdown skills, and relentless energy make him a constant threat on both attack and defence.

Lock: Joe McCarthy (Ireland)

The young Irish lock has impressed with his physical presence and lineout prowess. A strong ball carrier and defensive workhorse, McCarthy’s rise has been rapid and well-deserved.

Blindside Flanker: Ollie Chessum (England)

An all-action flanker with the engine to cover ground and a fearless approach to tackling. Chessum’s high work rate and aggressive breakdown skills add grit to the back row.

Openside Flanker: Jac Morgan (Wales)

The new No.7 on the block for the Lions. Morgan’s blend of physicality, breakdown tenacity, and ball skills have made him a standout for Wales, earning him this huge opportunity.

Number 8: Jack Conan (Ireland)

Powerful and mobile, Conan is a modern number 8 with a knack for breaking tackles and supporting play. His versatility and endurance are vital assets for the pack.

Scrum-half: Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland)

Quick, creative scrum-half with excellent game management and sharp passing. Gibson-Park brings pace and precision to the Lions’ playmaking.

Fly-half: Finn Russell (Scotland)

The mercurial fly-half who can turn a game on its head with moments of magic. Known for his vision, offloads, and unpredictable flair, Russell is a key attacking weapon.

Left Wing: James Lowe (Ireland)

A relentless winger with blistering pace and a fearless approach to contact. Lowe’s finishing ability and work ethic make him a constant attacking threat.

Inside Centre: Sione Tuipulotu (Ireland)

A strong, physical centre who combines powerful carries with solid defence. Tuipulotu’s physicality helps punch holes in opposition lines.

Outside Centre: Huw Jones (Scotland)

A classy and composed centre, Jones is known for his strong running lines and defensive reliability. His experience and skill set are crucial in midfield.

Right Wing: Tommy Freeman (England)

A dynamic and elusive outside back with electric footwork. Freeman’s versatility and attacking instincts have made him a breakout star in England’s setup.

Fullback: Hugo Keenan (Ireland)

A solid and reliable fullback with excellent positional sense and counter-attacking ability. Keenan’s calm under pressure and safe hands add security at the back.