Owen Farrell confirms he'll make international rugby return in 2025

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by Rugby Rucker

Thursday, 13 March 2025 at 12:26

byRugby Rucker

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Making the British and Irish Lions squad for the 2025 tour of Australia? Owen Farrell says it would be
“massive.”

Find your local Greene King and settle in for the 2025 Six Nations!

But for now, the former England captain has his sights firmly set on adapting to life in Paris with Racing 92.

The 33-year-old playmaker swapped the Premiership for the Top 14 last summer, a move that ruled him out of England duty due to the RFU’s strict selection policy. Thankfully for Farrell, the Lions' rules don’t play by the same book—keeping the door wide open for a return to the biggest stage.

"It's a massive thing for any British player, but it's a long way away," Farrell said, reflecting on his ambitions. The fly-half, who has been part of the last three Lions tours, added, "It's not something I'm thinking about at all at the moment. I'm busy trying to settle in here and do my best for Racing."

Family Ties and Overseas Eligibility

Adding intrigue to Farrell's potential selection is the fact that his father, Andy Farrell, will lead the Lions as head coach. The Lions have a history of selecting players based abroad, including Finn Russell in 2021 and Will Greenwood back in 1997.

Lions chief executive Ben Calveley confirmed their open-door policy:
“We don’t have a policy that closes off anyone from being selected,” he explained. “If you just look at previous Lions tours, we’ve had people come on a tour who haven’t been playing for a national side.”

Calveley also highlighted precedent for picking overseas-based players: “Finn Russell was based in France in 2021, so we don’t have any restrictions on selection.”

The selection of Farrell could blow open social media’s doors of hell, given that he has no form to warrant a call-up from his father.

A Tour to Remember

The 2025 Lions tour promises to be one for the history books, with a nine-match itinerary that kicks off against a New Zealand and Australia invitational XV. The historic opener in Adelaide will pave the way for three blockbuster Tests against the Wallabies in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.

Melbourne Cricket Ground, with its 100,000-seat capacity, could set a new attendance record for a Lions Test if sold out, while Sydney’s Olympic Park is poised to host the grand finale in front of over 80,000 fans.

For Farrell, the chance to don the iconic red jersey again would be monumental. But for now, the fly-half is embracing the challenge of adapting to life in the Top 14 with Racing 92.

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Bookies Predict the Lions XV to Face Australia – Two England Players Start

Forwards

1. Andrew Porter (Ireland) – 1/2

A converted loosehead prop who started his career as a tighthead, Porter is a cornerstone of Ireland’s pack with his powerful scrummaging and relentless work rate around the pitch.

2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland) – 3/10

One of the most dynamic hookers in world rugby, Sheehan offers explosive ball-carrying ability and strong set-piece play. He has become a key figure in Ireland’s recent successes.

3. Tadhg Furlong (Ireland) – 8/13

Arguably the best tighthead prop in the game, Furlong is known for his scrummaging dominance and remarkable skills in open play, often moving like a back despite his size.

4. Maro Itoje (England) – 1/5

The only Englishman in the starting XV, Itoje is a world-class lock with exceptional athleticism, lineout expertise, and a knack for disrupting opposition attacks. A Lions veteran, he’ll be vital for the tour.

5. Joe McCarthy (Ireland) – 1/2

A rising star in Irish rugby, McCarthy has made a huge impact with his physicality and work rate in Leinster’s second row. He’s quickly becoming a dominant force in European rugby.

6. Josh van der Flier (Ireland) – 1/3

The 2022 World Player of the Year, Van der Flier is an outstanding openside flanker with relentless tackling, breakdown skills, and an ability to pop up in crucial moments.

7. Ben Earl (England) – 4/9

England’s standout forward in recent tournaments, Earl’s dynamic ball-carrying, high work rate, and speed make him a perfect fit for the Lions’ back row.

8. Caelan Doris (Ireland) – 1/4

One of the best No.8s in world rugby, Doris combines intelligence, strength, and leadership. His ball-carrying ability and defensive prowess make him an essential selection.

Backs

9. Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland) – 1/3

Originally from New Zealand, Gibson-Park has revolutionized Ireland’s attack with his fast tempo and crisp distribution. His quick decision-making will be key in Australia.

10. Finn Russell (Scotland) – 1/4

A mercurial fly-half known for his creativity, pinpoint kicking, and unpredictable attacking play, Russell is the X-factor the Lions will need to unlock Australia’s defence.

11. James Lowe (Ireland) – 1/8

A powerful winger with a cannon of a left boot, Lowe has been a game-changer for Ireland, providing pace, physicality, and superb finishing ability.

12. Bundee Aki (Ireland) – 1/5

One of the most destructive centres in world rugby, Aki blends power with slick handling and defensive solidity. His recent form makes him a nailed-on Lions starter.

13. Huw Jones (Scotland) – 1/2

A classy centre with a sharp rugby brain, Jones is known for his attacking lines, pace, and ability to break defences. He has returned to top form for Scotland.

14. Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland) – 1/16

A giant winger with terrifying pace and strength, Van der Merwe has been a try-scoring machine for Scotland and was one of the stars of the 2021 Lions tour.

15. Hugo Keenan (Ireland) – 1/5

One of the most consistent full-backs in world rugby, Keenan is rock solid under the high ball, defensively sound, and a dangerous attacking threat.

This projection underscores Ireland's strong presence, with ten players expected to start, reflecting their recent dominance in international rugby. Scotland contributes three players, notably in key backline positions, while England's representation is limited to Maro Itoje in the forwards.

The selection process for the Lions is always a topic of intense debate, influenced by players' form, fitness, and performances in the lead-up to the tour. As the 2025 tour approaches, these odds may shift, especially with upcoming international fixtures and domestic competitions providing players with opportunities to stake their claims.

Note: The odds presented are based on current bookmaker predictions and are subject to change as the tour date nears.

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The Six Nations Championship, Europe’s premier rugby tournament, has delivered unforgettable moments and showcased some of the game’s greatest players.

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