Andy Farrell adds two experienced coaches to his Lions staff

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David Nucifora, the current Scotland and former Ireland performance director, is set to join the Lions' summer tour of Australia, according to reports from the PA news agency.

Find your local Greene King and settle in for the 2025 Six Nations!

This appointment comes as a surprise, despite Nucifora's long-standing relationship with Lions boss Andy Farrell, having worked closely with him during a five-year stint overseeing Irish rugby performance (2014–2024).

A familiar face in Walters

Highly-rated performance guru Aled Walters is also in line for a key role on the 10-match tour, which kicks off against Argentina in Dublin on 20 June. Walters, who left his England role last year to team up with Farrell's Ireland backroom staff, was widely expected to make the trip Down Under.

Aussie connection

Nucifora's expertise extends beyond the northern hemisphere. The Australian boasts an intricate knowledge of Wallabies boss Joe Schmidt, having worked alongside the Kiwi during Schmidt's Ireland tenure (2013–2019).

On tour, Nucifora is expected to take charge of performance staff—a vital role as the Lions prepare for their first series in Australia since 2013.

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Bookies Reckon This is the Lions Squad for the 2025 Aussie Tour – And Some Picks Will Surprise You

BACK-THREE (6)

The back-three boasts a dynamic mix, with Duhan van der Merwe and James Lowe bringing powerful running and finishing ability. Tommy Freeman and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso are tipped to add youthful flair and speed, while Hugo Keenan and Darcy Graham round out the squad with their solid defensive skills.

• Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland) – 1/16
• James Lowe (Ireland) – 1/8
• Hugo Keenan (Ireland) – 1/5
• Tommy Freeman (England) – 4/9
• Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (England) – 8/11
• Darcy Graham (Scotland) – 2/1

CENTRE (4)

In the centre, Bundee Aki is a strong favorite for his physicality, while Ollie Lawrence has made a name for himself with his impressive form. Sione Tuipulotu and Robbie Henshaw provide additional versatility and experience.

• Bundee Aki (Ireland) – 1/5
• Ollie Lawrence (England) – 1/4
• Sione Tuipulotu (Scotland) – 2/7
• Robbie Henshaw (Ireland) – 8/11

FLY-HALVES (3)

The fly-half selection highlights Finn Russell's creativity and flair, with Marcus Smith and George Ford both showcasing tactical nous and playmaking ability.

• Finn Russell (Scotland) – 1/10
• Marcus Smith (England) – 8/15
• George Ford (England) – 8/11

SCRUM-HALVES (3)

A competitive scrum-half group sees Jamison Gibson-Park favored for his quick service and decision-making, while Alex Mitchell and Ben White are both strong contenders.

• Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland) – 8/11
• Alex Mitchell (England) – 11/10
• Ben White (Scotland) – 11/10

PROP (3)

The front row is anchored by stalwarts like Tadhg Furlong and Andrew Porter, while Ellis Genge and Joe Marler add depth and experience.

• Tadhg Furlong (Ireland) – 1/8
• Andrew Porter (Ireland) – 1/7
• Zander Fagerson (Scotland) – 4/11
• Ellis Genge (England) – 4/6
• Joe Marler (England) – 5/6
• Pierre Schoeman (Scotland) – 5/4

HOOKER (3)

With Dan Sheehan leading the way, the hookers are expected to be agile and mobile, crucial for the fast-paced style of play the Lions aim to adopt.

• Dan Sheehan (Ireland) – 1/10
• Jamie George (England) – 8/15
• Elliot Dee (Wales) – 6/5

LOCK (5)

In the locks, Maro Itoje remains a cornerstone, complemented by Tadhg Beirne's athleticism and versatility.

• Maro Itoje (England) – 1/33
• Tadhg Beirne (Ireland) – 1/10
• Joe McCarthy (Ireland) – 4/6
• Ollie Chessum (England) – 8/11
• George Martin (England) – 11/10

BACK-ROW (6)

Finally, the back row combines experience and dynamism, with Josh van der Flier and Courtney Lawes bringing a wealth of international experience and physicality.

• Caelan Doris (Ireland) – 1/5
• Ben Earl (England) – 1/5
• Josh van der Flier (Ireland) – 1/3
• Courtney Lawes (England) – 8/15
• Tommy Reffell (Wales) – 4/6
• Rory Darge (Scotland) – 6/4

Can you name the entire British & Irish Lions squad from their tour of New Zealand in 2005?

The British & Irish Lions’ tour of New Zealand in 2005 remains one of the most talked-about campaigns in rugby history.

Despite facing a formidable All Blacks side, the squad was packed with legendary talent representing England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.

From unforgettable tries to moments of controversy, this tour had it all—and it's time to see just how much you remember!

Can you recall every player who pulled on the famous red jersey during that iconic tour? Dive into this quiz to test your Lions knowledge and relive a piece of rugby history!

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