Owen Farrell confirms he's in contention for international rugby return in 2025
Yesterday at 02:04 PM
Making the British and Irish Lions squad for the 2025 tour of Australia? Owen Farrell says it would be "massive."
But for now, the former England captain has his sights firmly set on adapting to life in Paris with Racing 92.
Find your local Greene King and settle in for the 2025 Six Nations!
The 33-year-old playmaker swapped the Premiership for the Top 14 last summer, a move that ruled him out of England duty due to the RFU's strict selection policy. Thankfully for Farrell, the Lions’ rules don't play by the same book—keeping the door wide open for a return to the biggest stage.
“It’s a massive thing for any British player, but it’s a long way away,” Farrell said, reflecting on his ambitions. The fly-half, who has been part of the last three Lions tours, added, “It’s not something I’m thinking about at all at the moment. I’m busy trying to settle in here and do my best for Racing.”
Family Ties and Overseas Eligibility
Adding intrigue to Farrell’s potential selection is the fact that his father, Andy Farrell, will lead the Lions as head coach. The Lions have a history of selecting players based abroad, including Finn Russell in 2021 and Will Greenwood back in 1997.
Lions chief executive Ben Calveley confirmed their open-door policy:
"We don't have a policy that closes off anyone from being selected," he explained. "If you just look at previous Lions tours, we've had people come on a tour who haven't been playing for a national side."
Calveley also highlighted precedent for picking overseas-based players: "Finn Russell was based in France in 2021, so we don't have any restrictions on selection."
A Tour to Remember
The 2025 Lions tour promises to be one for the history books, with a nine-match itinerary that kicks off against a New Zealand and Australia invitational XV. The historic opener in Adelaide will pave the way for three blockbuster Tests against the Wallabies in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.
Melbourne Cricket Ground, with its 100,000-seat capacity, could set a new attendance record for a Lions Test if sold out, while Sydney's Olympic Park is poised to host the grand finale in front of over 80,000 fans.
For Farrell, the chance to don the iconic red jersey again would be monumental. But for now, the fly-half is embracing the challenge of adapting to life in the Top 14 with Racing 92.
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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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