Henry Pollock, Maro Itoje named in British and Irish Lions squad for Australia tour

England's 20-year-old flanker Henry Pollock has been named in the British & Irish Lions 2025 squad for their tour of Australia, marking a rapid rise in his rugby career with only one England cap and limited Premiership experience prior to this season. Pollock's selection was widely celebrated, including by former England centre Will Greenwood, while notable absences from the squad include Owen Farrell, son of head coach Andy Farrell, and Ireland's Caelan Doris, who is sidelined due to injury. The squad, captained by England's Maro Itoje, features three fly-halves: Scotland's Finn Russell, and England's Fin Smith and Marcus Smith, with Sam Prendergast and other experienced players missing out. The Lions squad comprises 40 players, including only two Welsh players, Tomos Williams and Jac Morgan, reflecting an all-time low Welsh representation. Pollock's inclusion underscores his swift ascent and the selectors' confidence in his potential despite limited international exposure. This announcement highlights a blend of emerging talent and established stars shaping the Lions' competitive lineup for the upcoming tour.