Lions Ready for Brumbies Challenge
Eight Irish players feature in Lions XV to take on Brumbies in Wednesday’s match, as Andy Farrell fields his strongest side so far for the British and Irish Lions. The clash in Canberra is being viewed as a key rehearsal ahead of the first Test against Australia, with the Lions keen to fine-tune combinations and strategies before the Brisbane battle.
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Itoje Leads a Strong Line-Up
Captain Maro Itoje will lead the Lions on the day, pairing up in the second row with Joe McCarthy. The starting XV also sees Jamison Gibson-Park and Finn Russell selected as the half-back duo, choices that signal Farrell’s intention to build solid partnerships ahead of the Tests. Blair Kinghorn will get his first start at full-back, having arrived late to camp after finishing his Top 14 commitments with Toulouse.
Ireland’s Core at the Centre
The midfield will have a strong Irish presence, with Bundee Aki and Garry Ringrose forming the centre pairing. The forward pack also shows Leinster’s influence, with Dan Sheehan named at hooker and Tadhg Furlong taking the tight-head role, while Jack Conan earns the start at number eight.
Wing Options Under the Spotlight
On the wings, Tommy Freeman and James Lowe will look to impress, with both considered favourites to start against Australia. Mack Hansen, who once played for the Brumbies, will be on the bench, providing back-three cover and ready to make an impact against his old side.
Impact from the Bench
The bench features more Irish talent, bringing the total Irish involvement in the matchday squad to 12. Ronan Kelleher, Andrew Porter, Josh van der Flier and Mack Hansen will all be available for selection during the match. England’s Henry Pollock, who missed the previous game due to a calf issue that has now cleared, and versatile playmaker Marcus Smith are also included on the bench, providing fresh energy and X-factor opportunities as the Lions test combinations before the big games ahead.
Full Lions Squad for Brumbies Clash
The starting XV will include Blair Kinghorn, Tommy Freeman, Garry Ringrose, Bundee Aki, James Lowe, Finn Russell, Jamison Gibson-Park, Ellis Genge, Dan Sheehan, Tadhg Furlong, Maro Itoje (captain), Joe McCarthy, Ollie Chessum, Tom Curry, and Jack Conan. On the bench are Ronan Kelleher, Andrew Porter, Will Stuart, Josh van der Flier, Henry Pollock, Alex Mitchell, Marcus Smith, and Mack Hansen as the Lions prepare for a critical test rehearsal in Canberra.
