Owen Farrell set for Lions debut after concussion recovery
- Owen Farrell took part in his first full training session for the British and Irish Lions after joining the team as a late replacement.
- He is preparing for a crucial match against the ACT Brumbies while aiming for his first appearance on the tour.
- His wealth of experience is seen as vital for the team's success in upcoming matches.
In Australia, Owen Farrell participated in his first full training session with the British and Irish Lions on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, following his arrival as a replacement for the injured Elliot Daly. New Zealand faces the Lions in a high-stakes match against the ACT Brumbies in Canberra, as the team gears up for their next significant fixture. Andy Farrell, the head coach and Owen's father, confirmed his son's readiness to play after completing all return-to-play protocols for a prior concussion sustained during a match with Racing 92 against Lyon. This incident added to a challenging season for Farrell, which was marked by a groin surgery that limited him to just 17 appearances in 2024-25. His inclusion into the squad proved somewhat controversial, as his last Test for England happened nearly two years ago, and his performance at Racing 92 did not meet expectations, resulting in his immediate return to Saracens. However, Farrell's extensive experience, including his participation in the victorious Lions tour of 2013, has made him a valuable asset for the current squad. His addition is intended to bolster team leadership, and team members like Johnny Sexton noted how seamlessly he integrated into the team dynamics, highlighting his preparation and eagerness to contribute. Farrell's return exemplifies the management's faith in experience and leadership amid a strong competition leading into the first Test against Australia set for July 19.