Marcus Smith Defies Odds to Secure Lions Spot for First Wallabies Test
Marcus Smith has been named on the bench for the British & Irish Lions’ first Test against Australia in Brisbane on Saturday, after a turbulent season in which he faced both highs and lows. Smith’s versatility, especially his ability to play in multiple positions, has earned him a place in the matchday 23, following injuries to Blair Kinghorn and Mack Hansen, and a preference over Owen Farrell.
Smith, who began the season as England’s creative fly-half, was dropped in favor of Fin Smith before moving to full-back, a position he’s never truly felt comfortable in. His flexibility, however, made him an invaluable option for the Lions, and he has appeared in five of their six tour matches.
Key Selections and Changes for the Lions
In the back row, Tom Curry has been selected to start at openside flanker, joining Tadhg Beirne and Jack Conan. This trio, who all featured in the 2019 series against South Africa, will be relied upon for their experience, despite not yet finding their best form in Australia.
The back row choice also means the Lions will play without Welsh representation for the first time since the 19th century, as Jac Morgan has been left out of the squad.
In the midfield, Sione Tuipulotu will partner Huw Jones, forming an all-Scottish combination. Farrell has opted for a blend of players from different nations, including eight Irish internationals in the starting XV. Dan Sheehan and Tadhg Furlong anchor the front row, with Joe McCarthy in the lock position and Jamison Gibson-Park at scrum-half. James Lowe will feature on the left-wing and Hugo Keenan at full-back.
The Starting XV and Bench
- Starting XV:
- Backs: Keenan, Freeman, Jones, Tuipulotu, Lowe, Russell, Gibson-Park
- Forwards: Genge, Sheehan, Furlong, Itoje, McCarthy, Beirne, Curry, Conan
- Replacements: Porter, Kelleher, Stuart, Chessum, Earl, Mitchell, M. Smith, Aki
Among the players selected, Maro Itoje will captain the side and earn his 100th Test cap. Itoje’s leadership will be key in this crucial Test against a highly motivated Australian team.
Farrell’s Thoughts on the Test Match
“This is the business end of the tour, and it’s time to put in our best performance to date,” said Farrell. “We know the Wallabies will be highly motivated, and we know they are a well-organised and dangerous side.”
The Lions’ preparations are set for an exciting challenge, with Maro Itoje’s leadership taking center stage on the occasion of his 100th cap, as he leads a team full of ambition into this highly anticipated first Test.
