Furlong’s Lions milestone called ‘amazing’ by Farrell
By the time Saturday night arrives, Tadhg Furlong will have earned his ninth consecutive Test start for the British and Irish Lions, marking a perfect record across the 2017, 2021, and 2025 tours. “Furlong’s Lions milestone called ‘amazing’ by Farrell” sums up the pride surrounding this achievement. His ninth cap places him among the top 10 most capped Lions in Test history, an honor only three other Irish players—Willie John McBride, Mike Gibson, and Tony O’Reilly have achieved. Only Alun-Wyn Jones has played more Lions Test matches in the modern era, and just four players in 137 years have started more consecutive Tests.
ICYMI: Adeleke won’t compete in national champs this weekend
Farrell Hails Furlong’s Commitment
Head coach Andy Farrell spoke glowingly of Furlong’s impact, not only on the field but also behind the scenes during the tours. He praised the 32-year-old’s energy, saying, “I’ve never seen him in such good spirits.” Farrell, who has coached Furlong for almost a decade across Ireland and the Lions, noted that the prop’s long run at the top isn’t by chance. He credited Furlong’s ability to adapt his training and his dedication to managing recurring calf and Achilles injuries. According to Farrell, the unpredictable nature of Lions tours suits Furlong’s mindset, as it removes rigid routines and forces players to adjust quickly.
Team Changes for Final Test
Farrell has made two adjustments to the lineup for the final Test against the Wallabies in Sydney. James Ryan and Blair Kinghorn will start, replacing Ollie Chessum and James Lowe. Farrell emphasized that Ryan’s physical presence has grown during the tour and deserved to be rewarded with a start. As for Kinghorn, his athleticism and unpredictability make him a strategic fit, especially with aerial duels expected to be a big part of the game.
Squad Unity and Passion
Farrell has only used 27 players from a tour squad that once had 45, with key players like Josh van der Flier missing out on Test appearances. But despite the disappointment, the team spirit has been extraordinary. Farrell was deeply touched by how even the non-playing members were the loudest celebrants after the second Test win. He highlighted the culture of mutual support and shared purpose in the squad. “It actually touches you,” Farrell admitted, noting how the team remained fully engaged in training even after the lineup was revealed.
Pushing for a Historic Sweep
Although the Lions have already secured the series, Farrell isn’t settling for a 2-1 win. Saturday’s Test offers a chance to complete a historic 3-0 sweep against Australia—the first in a three-match series since 1904. Farrell said the team is highly motivated to finish undefeated, especially after starting the summer with a home loss to Argentina. “It would mean the world to us,” he said. The goal is not just winning, but honoring the Lions legacy and everything the jersey stands for.
