Tadhg Beirne Captains British and Irish Lions in Sydney vs Waratahs

Tadhg Beirne has been named captain of the British and Irish Lions for their upcoming match against the Waratahs in Sydney, replacing Maro Itoje. The team features 14 changes from their previous game, with new debuts for Hugo Keenan at full-back, Blair Kinghorn on the wing, and Ben White on the bench. Beirne will partner with James Ryan in the second row, while the back row includes Henry Pollock, Ben Earl, and Josh Van Der Flier. Owen Farrell has been called up to the squad to replace the injured Elliot Daly, sparking some controversy given Farrell's long injury layoff and limited recent play. The half-back pairing of Alex Mitchell and Fin Smith will face added pressure, especially with Farrell's arrival. Head coach Andy Farrell praised the new captain and debutants, emphasizing the intensity of the schedule ahead against a motivated Waratahs side.