Curry Leads Historic Lions Test Lineup Against Australia

Andy Farrell has announced a British & Irish Lions starting lineup for the first Test against Australia featuring a dominant Irish presence with eight players, including seven from Leinster, alongside key English and Scottish players. Tom Curry has been selected as the openside flanker, edging out Welsh contender Jac Morgan, marking the first Lions test team without a Welsh player since the late 19th century. The back row is completed by Jack Conan at number eight and Tadhg Beirne at blindside flanker, emphasizing height, power, and work rate. The midfield pairing includes Scotland's Sione Tuipulotu and Huw Jones, with Finn Russell at flyhalf, while injuries have shaped the back three with Hugo Keenan at full-back and James Lowe on the wing. Captain Maro Itoje leads the team, which also includes standout players such as Dan Sheehan, Joe McCarthy, and Ellis Genge, reflecting a blend of experience and form across the squad. Farrell has called for a collective raise in standards, recognizing the challenge posed by a motivated and well-organized Australian side at Suncorp Stadium.