Tadhg Beirne Feels Prepared Against the Lions in 2025
Tadhg Beirne feels prepared against the Lions in 2025, especially after missing the full experience during the last tour. Although he featured in two Tests in the 2021 British and Irish Lions series in South Africa, the matches were played in near silence without fans due to Covid-19 restrictions. This created a unique but less fulfilling version of what a Lions tour is usually like. Reflecting on it, Beirne mentioned how he and teammate Jack Conan briefly discussed their disappointment during the Six Nations. For them, the true magic of a Lions tour lies in the fanfare—the roaring crowds, vibrant cities, and the famous “sea of red” in the stands. Now, having been named again for the 2025 tour, Beirne is eager to experience what he describes as the “real” Lions atmosphere and energy.
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Looking Forward to a New Opportunity
Despite not starting in the 2021 Tests, Beirne made his mark by appearing in six matches and scoring three tries. Now 33 and a key figure for Munster, he is in strong contention for a starting role in the Test series against Australia, either as a lock or blindside flanker. When asked how he’s changed since the last tour, Beirne responded with humor about slowing down and gaining a bit of weight. However, he admitted to having grown as a player, particularly in understanding the game better and settling into the second row position over recent months. With more consistent experience at lock, especially with Munster, he feels more aware of his responsibilities in that role and confident in his improved rugby intelligence.
Building Chemistry with Maro Itoje
Beirne is set to start in the second row in the upcoming match against Argentina, partnered with England captain Maro Itoje. Although they were teammates on the last tour, they didn’t often line up together as locks, with Beirne playing more as a flanker then. After rooming with Itoje for a few days, Beirne says they’ve built good familiarity and chemistry. He praised Itoje’s composed leadership and noted how impressed he is with his clean communication style, even under pressure—a quality Beirne sees as a strength in guiding the squad effectively.
Embracing the Lions Challenge
With just under two weeks of preparation before facing Argentina at the Aviva Stadium, head coach Andy Farrell has called for unity and seamless coordination. Beirne echoed that message, saying the team is committed to holding themselves to the highest standards over the next ten games leading into August. He emphasized that as Lions, the players must adapt to new systems and playing styles, as sticking strictly to club or national routines won’t cut it. Every four years, the challenge is to evolve, remain flexible, and quickly learn the coach’s preferred tactics. According to Beirne, open-mindedness, sharing ideas with other players, and a hunger to grow are essential to success on such a prestigious tour. Being part of the Lions is a rare opportunity, and he believes those who embrace change and collaboration will thrive in the months ahead.
