Four surprise contenders for the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour
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The 2025 British & Irish Lions tour might seem a long way off, but the Six Nations is already shaping the selection race.
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While established names dominate predictions, a few unexpected players are forcing their way into contention.
Whether it’s experienced heads rediscovering form or rising stars making a statement, here are four potential bolters who could book a ticket to Australia next year.
Elliot Daly (England) – The veteran bolter
A “bolter” is usually an uncapped or emerging star, but Elliot Daly is flipping that narrative. Already a two-time Lions tourist (2017, 2021), the England utility back wasn't in many early squad predictions.
However, his composed performances this Six Nations have made Farrell take notice. With five Lions Test caps and the ability to cover multiple positions, Daly's experience could prove invaluable when selection time comes around.
Jac Morgan (Wales) – The Welsh warrior
Jac Morgan is one of the few Welsh players making a genuine case for Lions selection. Despite Wales’ struggles, the dynamic flanker has shone, earning praise from Sam Warburton, who even tipped him as a potential tour captain.
Tough at the breakdown, relentless in defence, and an intelligent leader, Morgan is proving he belongs at the highest level. If he keeps performing, his Lions ticket could be a certainty.
Jamie Ritchie (Scotland) – The late surge
Scotland's former captain is finding form at exactly the right time. Ritchie has been immense in recent games, showcasing his breakdown prowess, defensive solidity, and lineout ability.
While Scotland’s back-row competition is fierce, his relentless work rate and leadership qualities set him apart. If he maintains this level, Farrell could see him as a crucial piece of the Lions puzzle, particularly against Australia's physical pack.
Tommy Freeman (England) – The rising star
Freeman is going from strength to strength in this Six Nations. His latest display against Italy highlighted his work rate, power, and eye for the try-line.
Currently sitting second in the tournament's try-scoring charts, he is proving to be one of England's most dangerous attacking threats. With his blend of pace and physicality, Freeman is making a serious case for a Lions spot—if he keeps this up, he'll be impossible to overlook.
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"Blew Lions audition" – Eight Players Who Flopped in Round Four of the Six Nations
Despite the thrilling action, several players underperformed. Here's a summary of the eight who struggled, with quotes from the key publications.
#1. Ellis Genge (England)
Planet Rugby: “Again, didn't get to do much scrummaging but on the whole was fine. Carried hard when given the chance and got about in defence.”
Telegraph: “Probably his quietest performance of the Championship so far. Won an early scrum penalty but then got pinged for sealing off right in front of the posts.”
Mail Online: Warned for protesting with referee in the first half after being penalised for sealing off. Added a couple of trademark carries in attack.
Evening Standard: “Warned by the referee for his reaction to giving away a contentious late first-half penalty as he had too much to say for himself. Not his best day otherwise but useful in the loose.”
#2. Peter O’Mahony (Ireland)
UCK 4/10: “One last home run-out for the veteran. Will be disappointed with his work rate as his side fell apart shortly after he departed for Conan.”
Rugby Pass 5/10: “The mind is willing but the body was struggling to keep up. Fell off Antoine Dupont for France's first try and looked a yard or two off the pace throughout, although there was no lack of industry, grit or heart from the Munster veteran.”
Planet Rugby 5/10: “ucky to get away with a few infringements with some rather kind officiating. But the rub of the green went the other way for a crucial call with many claiming that he attempted to milk a penalty. Again a real weapon at the lineout. It's not the result the Ireland legend deserved in his final home outing but it wasn't his best showing either.”
Balls 5/10: “Did well in the lineout but game roared past him on a few occasions. Was taken out before the Boudehent try but Angus Gardner opted to ignore.”
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