The British & Irish Lions XV After the Six Nations – Who Makes the Cut
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The dust has settled on the Six Nations, and the battle for Lions selection has never been fiercer. With the next tour edging closer, we've picked the XV that would take the field if the Lions played tomorrow.
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Our predicted Lions XV based on Six Nations form!
1. Ellis Genge (England)
Nicknamed 'The Baby Rhino' for his explosive ball-carrying, Genge has been a wrecking ball in the loose. The England vice-captain combines raw aggression with improved scrummaging, making him a nightmare for opposition front-rows.
2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland)
Sheehan has cemented himself as one of the world’s best hookers. Powerful in the carry, accurate at the lineout, and lightning-quick for a front-rower, the Leinster man is a dynamic presence in attack and defense.
3. Will Stuart (England)
A rock in the scrum and a tireless worker around the park, Stuart's performances in the Six Nations proved he can mix it with the best. His physicality in tight exchanges makes him a valuable asset in the Lions pack.
4. Maro Itoje (England) – Captain
A natural leader and proven Lions veteran, Itoje's blend of athleticism, breakdown disruption, and lineout dominance makes him the perfect captain. A constant thorn in the side of opposition attacks.
5. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland)
Beirne continues to be one of the most complete forwards in world rugby. Whether stealing ball at the ruck, making big carries, or putting in crucial tackles, his versatility and intelligence are invaluable.
6. Tom Curry (England)
Back to full fitness, Curry reminded everyone why he was a standout in the 2021 Lions tour. His relentless work rate, ability to link play, and dominance at the breakdown make him a key figure in this back-row.
7. Ben Curry (England)
Following in his twin brother's footsteps, Ben Curry has emerged as a genuine force. A tireless tackler with a sharp rugby brain, he complements Tom perfectly in a balanced back-row.
8. Caelan Doris (Ireland)
Arguably the best No. 8 in the northern hemisphere, Doris is the complete package—explosive in attack, ferocious in defense, and possessing outstanding leadership qualities. The heartbeat of Ireland's pack.
9. Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland)
The catalyst behind Ireland's fast-paced attack, Gibson-Park's speed of service and sniping runs have been crucial to their recent success. His ability to dictate tempo gives him the edge at scrum-half.
10. Fin Smith (England)
The young playmaker has stepped up during the 2025 Six Nations, showing composure beyond his years. With crisp distribution, accurate goal-kicking, and a strong defensive game, Smith is a future Lions fly-half in the making.
11. James Lowe (Ireland)
Lowe's powerful running, booming left boot, and defensive work rate make him an indispensable asset. The Leinster winger is a proven game-changer who thrives on the biggest stages.
12. Bundee Aki (Ireland)
His hard running, offloading ability, and defensive solidity make him a must-pick for any Lions side.
13. Huw Jones (Scotland)
Back to his best, Jones has been a constant attacking threat. His ability to break defensive lines, combined with his sharp footwork, makes him the ideal midfield partner for Aki.
14. Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland)
A try-scoring machine, Van der Merwe's combination of size, speed, and power makes him one of the most dangerous wingers in the world. A guaranteed starter in any Lions squad.
15. Blair Kinghorn (Scotland)
With his towering frame and blistering pace, Kinghorn has evolved into a world-class full-back. His attacking instincts and ability to cover multiple positions make him a perfect fit for the Lions.
Six Lions Hopefuls Who Blew Their Final Audition on Super Saturday
Six Nation Super Saturday was the final test chance for British & Irish Lions hopefuls to make their case for a spot on the plane to Australia—but for some, it couldn't have gone much worse.
While a number of contenders struggled to deliver when it mattered most, one player's dreams may have been shattered by a potentially devastating injury.
With Andy Farrell keeping a close eye, these six players may have just played their way out of contention.
#1. James Lowe (Ireland)
Planet Rugby 4/10: “A bit of a stinker to be honest, although not necessarily the only one. Not wholly his fault, given that Ireland struggled to open space out wide, but Lowe made a number of errors and conceded several turnovers.”
Irish Examiner 5.5/10: “Took time to settle. Another trying to make up for lost time, popping up here and there as usual but over-hit a kick-through. Impossible, though, to keep quiet, a booming clearance kick giving Ireland crucial territory.”
#2. Taulupe Faletau (Wales)
Planet Rugby 4/10: “Tried to make something work, but was outmuscled by opposite number Ben Earl. Nevertheless, he's had a great Six Nations all things considered, but this wasn't his best day.”
Rugby Pass 5/10: “Following a string of encouraging performances in recent weeks, this was not one that will live long in the British and Irish Lion's memory. Made seven carries in his 52 minutes on the pitch but was turned over twice and struggled to exert his usual physicality.”
RUCK 5.5/10: “Under the interim head coach, Faletau seemed to have rediscovered his best form, and this was another solid performance as he earned his 108th cap. He made some big hits and carries, but surprisingly, his afternoon was cut short after being replaced by Tommy Reffell on 50 minutes.”
Wales Online 4/10: “Not his best game. Struggled against England’s backrow who had a field day at the breakdown and found it tough going getting over the gainline.”
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