British Irish Lions start Pollock, Sheehan captain Perth opener

Henry Pollock will make his first start for the British and Irish Lions at number eight in their tour opener against Western Force in Perth, following his debut off the bench in the recent defeat by Argentina. The Lions squad sees 13 changes from the previous match, with Dan Sheehan captaining the side in the absence of Maro Itoje, who has been rested. Sheehan leads a team featuring five Lions debutants, including Garry Ringrose, James Lowe, Joe McCarthy, and Josh van der Flier, while only two players from the Argentina match remain in the starting lineup. Head coach Andy Farrell expressed confidence in the team's preparation and emphasized the quality and challenge posed by the Western Force, noting the special performances often brought out by Super Rugby sides against the Lions. The match will take place at Optus Stadium and will be broadcast live in the UK and Ireland. This game provides Pollock, the youngest player in the 2025 Lions squad, an early opportunity to press his claim for Test selection.