British Irish Lions Name Aki, Chessum, Porter for Second Test in Melbourne

The British & Irish Lions have made key changes to their starting lineup for the second Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, aiming to clinch the series. Ollie Chessum, Bundee Aki, and Andrew Porter have been promoted to the starting XV, replacing Joe McCarthy, Sione Tuipulotu, and Ellis Genge, with Genge moving to the bench. This selection features nine Irish starters, including an all-Irish front row of Porter, Dan Sheehan, and Tadhg Furlong, and Maro Itoje continues as captain. Coach Andy Farrell emphasized the need for improvement following their first Test win, acknowledging a strong reaction from the Wallabies is expected. The bench also sees additions of James Ryan, Jac Morgan, Owen Farrell, and Blair Kinghorn, with Owen Farrell set to make his first Test appearance since the 2023 Rugby World Cup. The Lions remain unbeaten in Australia and look to secure the series in front of a large crowd at the iconic MCG stadium.