"7 changes" - Fans All Say the Same Thing About Andy Farrell’s Controversial Second Test Lions XV
Rugby NewsThursday, 24 July 2025 at 06:50
Andy Farrell has unveiled his side for Saturday’s crunch second Test against the Wallabies at the MCG — and it's packed with Irish firepower.
Nine Irish players, including seven from Leinster, start for the British and Irish Lions, sparking a wave of frustration from Scotland and England fans alike.
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There are three changes to the starting XV, and four more on the bench.
Bundee Aki steps in for Sione Tuipulotu in midfield, with the Scotland centre ruled out due to a tight hamstring. The rest of the backline remains untouched.
In the front row, Andrew Porter replaces Ellis Genge, who drops to the bench.
The reaction was swift — and fierce.
One fan wrote:
"No Tuipulotu is hysterical."
Another fumed: "Might as well be Ireland vs Australia."
A third added: "11 Irish players when your lads haven't been up to the task from the start, what a lack of respect."
Tuipulotu’s absence, especially with the game taking place in Melbourne — his hometown — drew heavy criticism.
“If I was Sione I’d be smashing the place up,” one fan said. “Homecoming at the MCG and dropped for an Irish player who’s been average at best. If Lowe was Scottish and played like that in first test he’d never be seen again.”
Another blasted: “How in who name is Lowe involved! Irish manager Irish team selected—embarrassing.”
Genge’s demotion also raised eyebrows.
“Surprised that Ellis Genge isn't starting! I'd expect him on in the 2nd half. But it's a really strong side,” wrote one supporter.
Another posted: “A lot of underperforming Irishmen in that squad. Shame about Sione’s hamstring injury, but how can he justify dropping Genge…”
There was at least one silver lining for Welsh fans, as Jac Morgan made the bench after missing out on the first Test.
One fan celebrated: “Yewwwwww yes Jac Morgan. Amazing to see you in the squad. Massive congratulations.”
Line-ups
Australia: Wright, Jorgensen, Suaalii, Ikitau, Potter, Lynagh, Gordon; Slipper, Porecki, Alaalatoa, Frost, Skelton, Valetini, McReight, Wilson
Replacements: Pollard, Bell, Robertson, Williams, Gleeson, Tizzano, McDermott, Donaldson
British & Irish LIon: Keenan, Freeman, Jones, Aki, Lowe, Russell, Gibson-Park; Porter, Sheehan, Furlong, Itoje, Chessum, Beirne, Curry, Conan
Replacements: Kelleher, Genge, Stuart, Ryan, Morgan, Mitchell, Farrell, Kinghorn
EDITORS PICKS:
PLAYERS HEADING HOME:
With the second and third Tests looming, Farrell has made it clear that players not in the selection frame will be heading for the departure lounge.
Farrell said: “You have to assess how long it will take you to get someone over. But to get to this late stage and call for guys from the other end of the world and to get them here to cover or to be part of the matchday takes time.”
While he’s open to further reinforcements if injuries hit, particularly in specialist roles, the plan for now is to streamline the group.
1. Fin Smith – The Flare with a Flaw
Showed flashes of class with ball in hand. His bullet pass set up Graham’s try, and a subtle offload paved the way for van der Merwe’s. Also worked hard defensively, making 15 tackles — joint most among Lions.
But a few missed conversions and errors at key moments dented his impact. With Russell and Farrell firmly ahead of him, Smith could easily be heading home as the squad tightens.
2. Tom Clarkson – The Quiet Enforcer
Did the gritty stuff well. The Irish prop held the scrum steady and drove hard into contact a few times. Nothing flashy, but the kind of shift coaches love.
3. Ewan Ashman – The Blink-and-You’ll-Miss-Him Hooker
Limited minutes and few chances to shine. Didn't put a foot wrong, but didn’t do enough to push for a Test spot either.
4. Jamie Osborne – Late Call-Up, Early Plane?
Turned heads with two tries and constantly threatened with ball in hand. Showed bravery under the high ball and looked sharp throughout.
Despite the breakout performance, he’s expected to head home — but will return with his stock much higher.
5. Gregor Brown – Cousin Cameo
The cousin of Blair Kinghorn made a tidy appearance off the bench. Solid in defence, no glaring errors, but didn’t do quite enough to justify holding a spot as the tour narrows.
6. Rory Sutherland – Scrum-Only Sighting
Another late-game cameo. Anchored the set-piece well but made no real dent elsewhere. May not get another shot.
7. Darcy Graham – Heartbreaker on the Wing
The Scottish flyer, called in just last week, made an immediate impact with a slick finish for the Lions' second try. But just 17 minutes in, he left the pitch with a foot injury.
Now in a protective boot and awaiting scans, his tour is almost certainly over.
Now in a protective boot and awaiting scans, his tour is almost certainly over.
"He's devastated,” said Andy Farrell. “To become a Lion and score — he should still be proud.”
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