Andy Farrell has announced his 2025 Lions squad. This announcement opens the door for two more players to secure their tickets to Australia before season end.
England
Twelve players selected. Maro Itoje leads the side. Jamie George and Jack Willis are unfortunate not to be selected. They will come into the picture as squad withdrawals are always expected.
Elliott Daly and Marcus Smith selected for versatility rather than standout form this term. Ben Earl looks primed for the eight jersey as Henry Pollock looks poised to secure game minutes at seven.
Fin Smith has a superb opportunity to secure the ten jersey. His performances in the Champions Cup will sway Andy Farrell to go with the exciting youngster. A steadier operator than Russell?
Ireland
Fifteen players selected. Doris unfortunate to miss due to injury, his time will come again. Was Prendergast ever a contender for the squad?
Northampton Saints last weekend confirmed that this squad choice is coming too soon for Prendergast. Robbie Henshaw will be disappointed at his omission but this Saints fixture last weekend sealed his fate.
Twelve Leinster Rugby players chosen. I question the James Ryan selection. Ryan failed to secure significant game time for the province this season. How can you be considered for this squad?
Mack Hansen is probably the biggest winner from the Ireland contingent. His form and injury woes this season raised questions on his inclusion. But, Farrell has given the Canberra native the nod.
Scotland
Eight representatives selected. There are no genuine arguments on players included.
Nonetheless, there are genuine fitness issue concerns for the likes of van der Merwe, Kinghorn and Tuipulotu. Watch this space.
Finn Russell will look to secure game time at ten. Will Andy Farrell switch his attentions to Fin Smith? Smith is an outstanding prospect. His game management against Leinster Rugby last weekend was standout.
The pack options are proven performers at test match level. Blair Kinghorn has elevated his game to new levels in Toulouse. Darcy Graham an unlucky omission but is probably on standby.
Wales
The current plight of the national side seen to full effect here. Jac Morgan and Tomos Williams are worthy selections.
Nicky Smith will be unlucky not to be included along with Faletau and Wainwright.
The Welsh national side has the opportunity to go on tour. They will have a virtually full strength squad to work with during the summer tour. The hope is that URC form for the regions will propel to the national side.
World Rugby needs a competitive Wales. The rebuild for the national team starts now. Given the 6N tournament performances, the two squad selections on reflection is expected.