Owen Farrell has been named on the bench for the British & Irish Lions’ second Test against Australia, as coach Andy Farrell made several changes to the starting lineup. Farrell, who captained the Lions to a 24-19 victory over the First Nations & Pasifika XV on Tuesday, will make his first Test appearance since England’s 2023 World Cup bronze medal match against Argentina.
Tuipulotu Left Out Due to Injury
Sione Tuipulotu has been left out of the starting XV due to a tight hamstring, a blow for the centre who impressed in the first Test victory in Brisbane. Tuipulotu’s omission is particularly bitter as he grew up in Melbourne, the location of the second Test. Bundee Aki will replace him at inside-centre.
Changes to the Starting XV
There are three key changes to the Lions’ starting lineup. Andrew Porter replaces Ellis Genge at loosehead prop, while Ollie Chessum comes in for the injured Joe McCarthy in the second row. The back-row remains unchanged with Tadhg Beirne, Tom Curry, and Jack Conan retaining their spots. The backline sees only one alteration, with Aki moving into the centre in place of Tuipulotu.
Farrell and Other Changes on the Bench
In addition to Farrell, the bench includes Jac Morgan, Blair Kinghorn, and James Ryan. Porter’s selection makes it an all-Ireland and Leinster front row alongside Dan Sheehan and Tadhg Furlong. Genge, who drops to the bench, will be tasked with bringing intensity, as his replacements struggled in the first Test.
Lions’ Strong Ireland Influence
With nine Irish players named in the squad, Farrell’s selection heavily features players from his national team. Seven of the starting XV are from Leinster, making this one of the most Ireland-centric Lions teams in recent memory.
Preview and Coach’s Comments
Andy Farrell acknowledged that while the Lions are in a good position after their first Test win, they are expecting a strong response from the Wallabies. “We know there will be a massive reaction from this Wallaby team. Everyone saw the quality they have in Brisbane and we know we will have to be a lot better than we were last week,” Farrell said.
