“Rename the team” – Legendary Lions Captain Blasts Selection of Foreign-Born Stars Again

Thursday, 17 July 2025 at 13:41

byRugby Rucker

Lions great Willie John McBride has revisited and expanded upon his recent controversial remarks regarding the number of foreign-born players in the 2025 British & Irish Lions squad.

The legendary lock, who featured on five Lions tours between 1962 and 1974, initially voiced his concerns in

Rapport, a South African publication, saying:

“One thing that does bother me is that eight members of the squad are not born in Britain or Ireland. That’s how things have changed over the past 60 years. In my day, the team consisted only of native players.”

Now, speaking to Patrick McCarry for Rugby World magazine, the 85-year-old has offered further clarity—though he remains unconvinced by the current direction of Lions selection.

“They are all good players,” McBride told Rugby World. “There is nothing wrong with them, in that regard. All very talented. The thing that disappoints me, though, is that rugby has been professional for 30 years, and we’re still not developing our own players. Surely there are enough fellas around that are equally as good, and worthy, of a Lions call-up?”

McBride made clear he holds no ill will toward the players themselves, but questioned how the team’s identity may continue to evolve under modern eligibility rules.

“If we go down this road, you wonder whether it should just be the British, Irish & Newly Qualified Lions,” he added. “Time moves on and brings about changes. I accept that, and wish those players well, on tour.”

His remarks have sparked fresh debate around the future makeup of the iconic touring side—raising questions not just of form, but of national identity in the professional era.

Three Bold Changes That Would Instantly Improve the Lions Starting Line-up

The British & Irish Lions have made history with an all-Scottish 10-12-13 axis for the first time ever when they take on Australia in Brisbane this Saturday.

Finn Russell, Sione Tuipulotu and Huw Jones will pull the strings in midfield, with head coach Andy Farrell opting for a bold playmaking spine. The rest of the starting XV is made up entirely of Irish and English players, as no Welshmen have made the matchday 23.

It’s the first time since 1896 the Lions have named a squad to face Australia, New Zealand or South Africa without a single player from Wales.

There were three selections that fans seemingly didn’t agree with—and social media has been ablaze ever since the squad was announced.

Fan fury: Jac Morgan axed

The biggest talking point? The omission of Jac Morgan, who many tipped as a nailed-on starter after a standout tour.

It's a selection bombshell that’s ended over a century of Welsh involvement in Lions Test matches—stretching all the way back to 1899.

One of the most consistent performers in Welsh rugby, Jac Morgan has captained his country and stood out as a breakdown beast. His work rate, defensive engine, and ability to carry hard in traffic have made him a fan favourite. Many felt his form on tour warranted a starting Lions spot—or at the very least, a place on the bench.

One fan wrote: "No Morgan?! What more could he have done?”

Another said: “Not even on the bench—this is a joke!”

Another added: “Where’s Morgan, Pollock, Chessum? The selection reeks of bias.”

Another said: “Morgan’s in the form of his life and Farrell literally said ‘he can play wherever he wants’… then doesn’t pick him!”

Another slammed it as: "No Jac Morgan is laughable, been the best 7 on tour by a country mile."

Controversial picks spark backlash

A hybrid forward with serious mobility and grit, Ollie Chessum has gone from under-the-radar to must-pick in record time. His athleticism and form on tour impressed, and fans were stunned to see him left out of the starting XV.

Tadhg Beirne keeps his place in the second row, but many fans feel Ollie Chessum has outplayed him throughout the tour. The England forward only makes the bench.

One fan wrote: “Beirne starting ahead of Chessum? This squad feels like it’s based on past reputation, not current form.”

Another said: "Mental how Chessum ain’t starting"

Another added: "Chessum 100% deserved a start"

Duhan vs Freeman debate ignites

Another contentious call saw Tommy Freeman picked ahead of Duhan van der Merwe, despite the Scotland winger scoring a hat-trick in the final warm-up game.

A true powerhouse, van der Merwe blends size, speed, and finishing ability like few others. After a quiet start to the tour, he exploded back into form with a hat-trick in the final warm-up game. Despite his pedigree, he’s been left out of the starting line-up—leaving many fans scratching their heads.