Will Greenwood's Wild 2025 Lions XV Prediction from 2021 Resurfaces – How Did He Do?
12/17/2024 03:41 PM
Back in 2021, England legend Will Greenwood shifted focus to the 2025 venture to Australia, highlighting the promising young talents who could make the XV.
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With an eye on a dynamic starting 23 for the first Test against the Wallabies, featuring rapid backs and robust forwards, Greenwood emphasised the necessity of rejuvenation after the setbacks in South Africa.
Guiding the squad, Greenwood proposes Gregor Townsend as head coach, supported by Ronan O'Gara and Steve Borthwick. Despite offensive struggles against the Springboks, Greenwood trusts in Townsend’s ability to ignite the team’s attacking prowess.
Greenwood shared his thoughts, saying, “The 2021 tour was captivating, but now it’s time to focus on 2025 and the young talents who could shine in Australia.”
Below we revisit the team he picked following the 2021 tour.
Hugo Keenan (Ireland) Greenwood praises Keenan’s potential, foreseeing growth in wisdom and composure over the next four years, establishing him as a premier European full-back. “I love Keenan,” Greenwood remarks. “After another four years of Irish rugby, he will be wiser and more composed; the leading European full-back.”
Louis Rees-Zammit (Wales) Despite limited opportunities in South Africa, Greenwood sees Rees-Zammit’s electric pace as a game-changing asset, honed through standout performances for Gloucester and Wales. “In the short periods he did feature, you could tell there was a star in the making,” Greenwood notes.
Garry Ringrose (Ireland) Highlighted for his innate class and defensive prowess, Ringrose aims to seize his last chance at Lions selection in 2025 after enduring injuries and fluctuating form. “He is an inherent class act who defends astutely and runs devilish angles,” Greenwood observes.
Cameron Redpath (Scotland) Expected to return to top form post-injury, Redpath’s standout performances for Scotland mark him as a potential key figure in the midfield. “I expect him to return to that sort of form when he returns to full fitness,” Greenwood predicts.
Adam Radwan (England) Greenwood champions Radwan’s inclusion, citing his explosive debut season and undeniable talent, suggesting that age should not hinder selection if ability shines through. “If you're good enough, you're old enough,” Greenwood asserts.
Marcus Smith (England) Despite limited exposure in South Africa, Smith’s flair and leadership qualities, demonstrated in Harlequins’ Premiership triumph, position him as a future elite fly-half. “By 2025, he could be one of the world's best fly-halves,” Greenwood predicts confidently.
Tomos Williams (Wales) Williams’ commanding presence and playmaking abilities make his absence from the South Africa tour a surprise, fueling his determination to excel in 2025. “Missing out this year will spur him on tremendously,” Greenwood believes.
Ellis Genge (England) Renowned for his unique threat with the ball in hand, Genge’s absence from the Springbok series highlights his potential impact in future Lions campaigns. “With the ball in hands, Genge offers a threat that no other loosehead can match,” Greenwood highlights.
Ronan Kelleher (Ireland) Emerging as a standout hooker, Kelleher’s experience in South Africa primes him for a prominent role in the forthcoming Australian tour. “After tasting the Lions environment in South Africa, he will be desperate to return for the full three courses in Australia in four years' time,” Greenwood remarks.
Zander Fagerson (Scotland) Despite facing challenges in South Africa, Fagerson’s strength and potential offer a promising foundation for future Lions success. “Fagerson looked strong early on before fading away,” Greenwood reflects.
Maro Itoje (England, captain) Undisputed as a leader and exceptional player, Itoje’s consistency positions him as a natural choice for captaincy in the 2025 squad. “As things stand, there is simply no one else who could captain this side,” Greenwood emphasises.
Adam Beard (Wales) Despite initial skepticism, Beard’s stellar performances validate his selection, hinting at a bright future in the Lions jersey. “Many were left scratching their heads when he was called up,” Greenwood acknowledges.
Jamie Ritchie (Scotland) Ritchie’s all-around skills, including lineout prowess and relentless work rate, establish him as a vital asset for Scotland and potential Lions success. “He is a pest at the breakdown, too,” Greenwood adds.
Tom Curry (England) In the absence of Jack Willis, Curry’s resilience and skill set make him a compelling choice for the back row, offering stability and dynamism. “After such a serious injury, he has to return and get a couple of seasons under his belt before he can come into realistic consideration,” Greenwood assesses.
Caelan Doris (Ireland) Acknowledging the tough selection process, Doris emerges as a standout choice for the No. 8 position, embodying the talent pool’s depth across the UK and Ireland. “It was a tough choice,” Greenwood admits, “but Doris offers immense potential.”
Replacements:
16. Ewan Ashman (Scotland)
Bevan Rodd (England)
Tadhg Furlong (Ireland)
Ryan Baird (Ireland)
James Botham (Wales)
Raffi Quirke (England/Ireland)
Adam Hastings (Scotland)
Ioan Lloyd (Wales)
Head Coach: Gregor Townsend Assistant Coaches: Ronan O'Gara and Steve Borthwick
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Can you name the entire British & Irish Lions squad from their tour of New Zealand in 2005?
From unforgettable tries to moments of controversy, this tour had it all—and it's time to see just how much you remember!
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