How the British & Irish Lions XV would look right now, zero Welshmen included
Yesterday at 05:27 PM
As the Autumn Nations Series unfolds, we assess how the British & Irish Lions would line up based on current form, with key players from England, Ireland, and Scotland leading the charge as they prepare for the upcoming challenge in Australia.
Join our Breaking News and Top Stories WhatsApp community for all the latest news direct to your phone.
British & Irish Lions XV
Fullback
Hugo Keenan (Ireland)
Keenan's consistency under the high ball and his sharp counter-attacking ability make him the perfect fit for the British & Irish Lions’ fullback spot. After his excellent performances this autumn, it's hard to look beyond the Irishman for a starting role in the upcoming Lions tour to Australia.
Right Wing
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (England)
Despite being relatively new on the scene, Feyi-Waboso has made waves this autumn with his pace and attacking flair. His try-scoring instincts make him an exciting prospect for the Lions as they look for a cutting edge on the wing.
Centre
Garry Ringrose (Ireland)
Ringrose is in excellent form this autumn, showing off his vision, defensive solidity, and dynamic attacking capabilities. He's a perfect fit for the Lions' centre spot, offering leadership and experience in the midfield.
Inside Centre
Sione Tuipulotu (Scotland)
Tuipulotu's robust ball-carrying and defensive prowess make him the ideal partner for Ringrose in the centres. His ability to break the gainline and make those powerful runs could be the key to unlocking opposition defences on tour.
Left Wing
Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland)
Van der Merwe has shown his usual strength and finishing ability during the autumn internationals. His power and ability to shrug off tackles could prove crucial for the Lions as they look to dominate in Australia.
Fly-Half
Marcus Smith (England)
Smith has been a standout for England, showcasing his playmaking flair and ability to control the game from fly-half. He brings the attacking vision the Lions need in Australia, with an added sense of unpredictability.
Scrum-Half
Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland)
The Irish scrum-half has been in electric form, displaying speed, accuracy, and intelligence. His quick service and sharp decision-making make him the ideal candidate to guide the Lions’ attack in the Southern Hemisphere.
Loosehead Prop
Andrew Porter (Ireland)
Porter has been a dominant force in the scrum, and his all-around work ethic makes him one of the best looseheads in the northern hemisphere. Expect him to anchor the Lions’ front row with power and precision.
Hooker
Jamie George (England)
George continues to impress with his lineout accuracy and leadership. His work at the breakdown and his ability to control the pace of the game make him an indispensable figure in the Lions’ pack. Plus, his experience on previous tours to New Zealand and South Africa will be invaluable.
Tighthead Prop
Tadhg Furlong (Ireland)
One of the best in the world, Furlong's scrummaging and carrying ability make him the cornerstone of the Lions’ forward pack. His technical skill is unrivalled, and his form this autumn has only reaffirmed his place as a starter.
Lock
Maro Itoje (England)
Itoje's dynamic work at the lineout and his physicality in open play make him a must-pick for the Lions. His presence in the engine room would give the Lions a physical and mental edge in Australia.
Lock
Joe McCarthy (Ireland)
McCarthy has shown tremendous potential this autumn, displaying both physicality and technical accuracy. His combination of strength and mobility gives the Lions a second-row option who can excel at the set-piece and in open play.
Blindside Flanker
Chandler Cunningham-South (England)
Cunningham-South has impressed with his work rate, ball carrying, and defensive capabilities. His versatile skill set makes him a standout player in the back row and an ideal choice for the Lions’ blindside.
Openside Flanker
Josh van der Flier (Ireland)
Van der Flier has been everywhere this autumn, showing his tireless work rate and tackling ability. A strong performer at the breakdown, he would be vital for the Lions to slow down Australia's ball and disrupt their attack.
Number Eight
Caelan Doris (Ireland)
Doris has been in exceptional form, blending power with finesse in attack and defence. His ability to carry the ball and link play would make him an ideal choice as the Lions’ number eight on tour.
EDITORS PICKS:
- Scotland coach is bookies favourite to replace Warren Gatland following record loss
- Sir Ian Botham's Grandson allowed to play on despite being 'knocked' out for Wales against Australia
- Ugo Monye calls out Courtney Lawes 'bullish**' live on air following England defeat
- England's collapse down the world rankings lands them in group of death for 2027 Rugby World Cup
- Ben Earl faces criticism for controversial incident moments before halftime against the Springboks
QUIZ: Can You Name The Top 10 Springboks Of All-time?
The post How the British & Irish Lions XV would look right now, zero Welshmen included appeared first on Ruck.
