British Irish Lions Name 38-Man Squad for 2025 Australia Tour

Andy Farrell has named a 38-man British and Irish Lions squad for the 2025 tour of Australia, blending experienced players with promising newcomers. Notable inclusions are England back-row Henry Pollock, who made his Test debut only recently, and fly-halves Marcus Smith, Fin Smith, and Finn Russell, while Owen Farrell and Sam Prendergast were surprisingly omitted. Maro Itoje has been named captain, and the squad includes a strong contingent of second-row forwards from Ireland, despite some injuries affecting potential leaders like Caelan Doris. The squad selection saw some significant exclusions, including well-known players like Jamie George and Jack Willis, with discussions around the absence of Owen Farrell hinting at complex dynamics within the selection process. Scotland's Blair Kinghorn is the only France-based player selected, and utility back Elliot Daly secured a place over Tom Jordan. The Lions squad reflects a strategic mix of youth and experience aimed at a competitive series in Australia.