Sir Ian McGeechan picks Englishman as his 2025 British & Irish Lions Captain
Today at 11:05 AM
Lions legend Sir Ian McGeechan has backed Courtney Lawes to captain the British & Irish Lions for their tour of Australia next year.
Join the RUCK's WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
Speaking to the I, he said: “At the moment you have to start with Irish names, when you look at how well they are going, although ultimately a Lions tour must reflect the previous 12 months,
“But Courtney Lawes is a name I’d give you: I’d have him in the squad and I would even consider him as captain because that’s going to be a big one.
“A lot of the captains – O’Mahony [for Ireland] and England’s – are between and betwixt at the moment. That’s going to be a big call.”
EDITORS PICKS:
- Competition: A chance to roar the Lions on down under in Sydney and Melbourne!
- "Tommy, he is class" – Fin Smith: England fly half backs Freeman to replace Lawrence at centre
- Viral clips of 'dirty' Ireland tactics have gone viral, France to launch an appeal
- Four surprise contenders for the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour
- England Squad Update: Borthwick calls up Ollie Lawrence replacement
- "Give you the middle finger" – Ollie Chessum recalls 'hostile' abuse from Welsh fans
Bookies Predict the Lions XV to Face Australia – Two England Players Start
Forwards
1. Andrew Porter (Ireland) – 1/2
A converted loosehead prop who started his career as a tighthead, Porter is a cornerstone of Ireland's pack with his powerful scrummaging and relentless work rate around the pitch.
2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland) – 3/10
One of the most dynamic hookers in world rugby, Sheehan offers explosive ball-carrying ability and strong set-piece play. He has become a key figure in Ireland's recent successes.
3. Tadhg Furlong (Ireland) – 8/13
Arguably the best tighthead prop in the game, Furlong is known for his scrummaging dominance and remarkable skills in open play, often moving like a back despite his size.
4. Maro Itoje (England) – 1/5
The only Englishman in the starting XV, Itoje is a world-class lock with exceptional athleticism, lineout expertise, and a knack for disrupting opposition attacks. A Lions veteran, he'll be vital for the tour.
5. Joe McCarthy (Ireland) – 1/2
A rising star in Irish rugby, McCarthy has made a huge impact with his physicality and work rate in Leinster's second row. He's quickly becoming a dominant force in European rugby.
6. Josh van der Flier (Ireland) – 1/3
The 2022 World Player of the Year, Van der Flier is an outstanding openside flanker with relentless tackling, breakdown skills, and an ability to pop up in crucial moments.
7. Ben Earl (England) – 4/9
England's standout forward in recent tournaments, Earl's dynamic ball-carrying, high work rate, and speed make him a perfect fit for the Lions' back row.
8. Caelan Doris (Ireland) – 1/4
One of the best No.8s in world rugby, Doris combines intelligence, strength, and leadership. His ball-carrying ability and defensive prowess make him an essential selection.
CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO
The post Sir Ian McGeechan picks Englishman as his 2025 British & Irish Lions Captain appeared first on Ruck.
