Andy Farrell begins as Lions head coach for 2025 tour
- Andy Farrell is preparing to lead the British & Irish Lions as head coach for the 2025 tour to Australia.
- The November matches have shown a competitive edge from the Wallabies, potentially impacting the Lions' strategy and selections.
- The selection of a strong 38-man touring party, with a good mix of experienced players and new talent, indicates the Lions' ambition to succeed in Australia.
As Andy Farrell prepares to take on the role of Lions head coach for the 2025 tour in Australia, he is reflecting on the impact of the November action. The recent performance of the Wallabies in November has revitalized hopes for a competitive series, with the Australian team under Joe Schmidt adopting a style that is both fast and physical. This presents a unique challenge for Farrell and his selection of the touring party. The Lions squad prediction has been set at 38 players, focusing on various key positions with established international players featured prominently. Notably, the props include Pierre Schoeman, Andrew Porter, and Ellis Genge, who represent a strong area for the Lions with no changes from the summer selections. The locks are another essential group, featuring Maro Itoje, Tadhg Beirne, and Joe McCarthy among others, ensuring depth and versatility, especially in securing lineouts and supporting mauls. Scrum halves and fly halves have also been identified, with players like Jamison Gibson-Park and Finn Russell expected to be pivotal as they navigate game strategies through the series. As the Lions prepare for their tour, the blend of experienced players and emerging talents gives hope for a strong performance in Australia, making the upcoming series a highly anticipated clash.