The British & Irish Lions have officially unveiled their 2025 squad for the highly anticipated tour of Australia, marking a significant moment in rugby history.
The announcement took place today (8th May) at London’s iconic O2 Arena, in front of over 2,000 passionate fans. This was a first for the Lions, bringing supporters closer to the action than ever before.
Head coach Andy Farrell, stepping into the role after Warren Gatland’s tenure, has selected a 38-man squad poised to take on the Wallabies in a series that promises to be both challenging and exhilarating. Farrell’s familiarity with many of the players, particularly those from Ireland, is expected to be a strategic advantage as the team prepares for the tour.
In a key leadership decision, Maro Itoje has been named as 47th captain of the Lions, becoming the first Englishman to lead the team since Martin Johnson. Speaking about the honour, Itoje said: “It’s hard to articulate really, it’s a tremendous honour, it’s a tremendous privilege.” His appointment follows the unfortunate news that Ireland’s Caelan Doris was ruled out due to a shoulder injury, creating the opportunity for the experienced lock to step into the leadership role.
2025 British & Irish Lions Squad
Forwards:
- Tadhg Beirne (Ireland)
- Ollie Chessum (England)
- Jack Conan (Ireland)
- Luke Cowan-Dickie (England)
- Scott Cummings (Scotland)
- Tom Curry (England)
- Ben Earl (England)
- Zander Fagerson (Scotland)
- Tadhg Furlong (Ireland)
- Ellis Genge (England)
- Maro Itoje (England) (c)
- Ronan Kelleher (Ireland)
- Joe McCarthy (Ireland)
- Jac Morgan (Wales)
- Henry Pollock (England)
- Andrew Porter (Ireland)
- James Ryan (Ireland)
- Pierre Schoeman (Scotland)
- Dan Sheehan (Ireland)
- Will Stuart (England)
- Josh van der Flier (Ireland)
Backs:
- Bundee Aki (Ireland)
- Elliot Daly (England)
- Tommy Freeman (England)
- Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland)
- Mack Hansen (Ireland)
- Huw Jones (Scotland)
- Hugo Keenan (Ireland)
- Blair Kinghorn (Scotland)
- James Lowe (Ireland)
- Alex Mitchell (England)
- Garry Ringrose (Ireland)
- Finn Russell (Scotland)
- Finn Smith (England)
- Marcus Smith (England)
- Sione Tuipulotu (Scotland)
- Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland)
- Tomos Williams (Wales)
Ireland leads the way in representation with 15 players selected, reflecting their recent Six Nations success and alignment with Andy Farrell’s coaching approach. England follow closely with 13 players, including rising stars like Henry Pollock, while Scotland contribute nine, many of whom bring flair and versatility in the backline. Wales have two representatives, Jac Morgan and Tomos Williams, suggesting a changing of the guard in the northern hemisphere hierarchy.
The upcoming British & Irish Lions squad blends proven experience with fresh talent. Seasoned internationals such as Tadhg Furlong, Elliot Daly and Finn Russell offer valuable leadership and Test pedigree. In contrast, newcomers like Joe McCarthy, Tommy Freeman and Finn Smith signal a forward-thinking approach that looks beyond this tour alone.
The back row is particularly competitive, with dynamic options including Ben Earl, Tom Curry, and Josh van der Flier. This depth allows for various combinations depending on the physicality or pace of the opposition. In the backs, the selection of three fly-halves (Russell, Finn Smith and Marcus Smith) provides tactical flexibility, likely supporting a fast, attacking style.
Versatility is a clear theme throughout the squad. Players such as Blair Kinghorn and Elliot Daly can cover multiple positions, offering valuable adaptability in a condensed tour schedule. The centres and back three options are equally well stocked, with a mix of physicality, footwork and creativity.
Overall, Farrell’s selection suggests a side built to play with tempo, aggression and skill. The mix of nationalities and playing styles gives the Lions a well-rounded, dangerous edge heading into Australia, with the ambition to not just compete, but to win convincingly.
The tour ahead
The tour schedule is set to begin on 28th June, with the Lions facing Western Force in Perth. It will conclude on 2nd August. The itinerary includes nine matches, featuring three crucial Test matches against the Australian national team. A pre-tour fixture against Argentina in Dublin on 20th June will serve as a vital warm-up, giving the squad an opportunity to gel before travelling to Australia.
As the Lions prepare to embark on this demanding tour, the combination of strong leadership, international experience and youthful vigour within the squad sets the stage for a compelling series against Australia. With the eyes of the rugby world fixed on them, the 2025 British & Irish Lions are ready to make their mark and aim for a historic series victory.
