Wareen Gatland selects FOUR English players in his British & Irish Lions XV

Yesterday at 09:23 AM

Warren Gatland has named his early picks for a potential British & Irish Lions XV in column for The Telegraph, with some major calls across the squad.

Here's a look at his selections, along with his thoughts on key players.

1. Andrew Porter (Ireland)

Gatland acknowledged the impressive recent form of Ellis Genge but ultimately gave the nod to Porter, citing his strong scrummaging and technical improvements. "He may not always be popular with referees, but he has been aware and made technical improvements."

2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland)

Sheehan's dynamic presence and ability to finish in the wider channels secured his place. "He scored a hat-trick of tries against Italy… He is almost like another back-row forward."

3. Will Stuart (England)

Gatland praised Stuart's transformation into one of England's standout players. "Like a good wine, tighthead props tend to improve with age and Stuart has been one of the players of the championship for England."

4. Maro Itoje (England)

Itoje's resurgence caught Gatland's eye. "I think Maro has played some of his best rugby of the past three or four years during this championship."

5. Joe McCarthy (Ireland)

Gatland highlighted McCarthy's power. "With McCarthy you get that ball-carrying physicality that can really cause some damage."

6. Tom Curry (England)

It was a close call between Tom and Ben Curry, but Tom's experience gave him the edge. "Tom probably edges it with his experience."

7. Jac Morgan (Wales)

Despite strong competition, Gatland went with Morgan's all-around game. "A selection from the heart… I love what Jac can do on both sides of the ball."

8. Caelan Doris (Ireland) – Captain

Doris was named captain, with Gatland praising his consistency. "I think he will captain the team as well."

9. Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland)

Gatland ranked Gibson-Park just behind Antoine Dupont. "His kicking game is visionary."

10. Finn Russell (Scotland)

Russell's experience and playmaking ability edged out other contenders like George Ford and Marcus Smith. "What edges it for me is his experience and calmness at the minute."

11. James Lowe (Ireland)

Lowe's finishing ability and left-footed kicking game secured his spot. "A big, physical player… He also has a great left foot and Ireland use that cleverly with their exits."

12. Bundee Aki (Ireland)

Gatland valued Aki's ability to get over the gain line. "With Bundee, you know he will get you over the line."

13. Henry Slade (England)

Slade's selection reflected a lack of standout contenders at outside centre. "I don't think we have seen any outside centres really put their hands up and demonstrate that X-factor."

14. Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland)

Van der Merwe's power and try-scoring record made him a must-pick. "He has been a dangerous player for years and offers power, finishing and tries."

15. Hugo Keenan (Ireland)

Keenan edged out Blair Kinghorn in a tight call. "Hugo has been one of the most consistent high performers over the last two or three years."

2025 British & Irish Lions Squad: Bookies' Predictions for the Tour

With the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia fast approaching, the bookmakers have released their early odds on who will make the squad.

While a lot can change between now and the final selection, these odds give a strong indication of who the bookies believe will be donning the famous red jersey next summer.

The bolded players in our proposed Lions squad represent the starting XV, according to current odds.

2025 BRITISH & IRISH LIONS SQUAD (36)

BACK-THREE (6)

• Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland) – 1/16
• James Lowe (Ireland) – 1/8
• Hugo Keenan (Ireland) – 1/5
• Tommy Freeman (England) – 4/9
• Blair Kinghorn (Scotland) – 8/11
• Darcy Graham (Scotland) – 2/1

CENTRE (4)

• Bundee Aki (Ireland) – 1/5
• Ollie Lawrence (England) – 1/4
• Sione Tuipulotu (Scotland) – 2/7
• Robbie Henshaw (Ireland) – 8/11

FLY-HALVES (3)

• Fin Russell (Scotland) – 1/10
• Fin Smith (England) – 8/15
• Sam Prendergast (Ireland) – 8/11

CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO

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