Andy Farrell Boosts Lions Squad with Two More Additions

 want, it’s finishers with flair. His omission baffled fans and pundits alike — especially given his aerial ability and defensive improvements in the past 12 months.

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The 38-man announcement sparked plenty of barstool debates, but Farrell wasn’t done. He confirmed two more names will be added before the squad jets off to Australia.

The brief? Players showing form and fitness in the coming weeks. Translation: the door’s still open, lads. So, who’s knocking the loudest?

Here are the top five bolter candidates — from outside chances to almost-certain call-ups.

Ben White might not be flashy, but he’s one of those players who just quietly does his job better than most. Since his debut in 2021, he’s become the heartbeat of Scotland’s tempo, playing a crucial role in their Six Nations resurgence under Gregor Townsend.

With 20+ caps already and a pass sharper than a stiletto blade, he’s been ever-present against top opposition — even notching a memorable try against England at Twickenham in 2022. His kicking game is on-point, his service is zippy, and he’s got the tactical brain to match. He’s also proven durable and reliable — two traits Lions coaches value a lot.

A dark horse, yes. But White’s calm command might yet earn him a ticket down under.

Veteran alert! Faletau isn’t just experienced — he’s decorated. The Cardiff powerhouse has over 100 Test caps, three Lions tours (2013, 2017, 2021), and a reputation for big-match brilliance. He was arguably the standout forward on the 2017 tour to New Zealand.

While injury has hampered his season, Faletau’s return to action comes just in time. His ability to read the game, make crucial carries, and cover every blade of grass is still unmatched. If you want a guy who won’t flinch in the final five minutes of a Test — this is your man.

Yes, the Lions back row is stacked. But should one of the young guns falter, the selectors may reach for the tried-and-tested tank.

Let’s be honest — this is the biggest omission of the whole announcement. Owen Farrell, one of the most polarising yet battle-hardened players of the modern era, not in the initial squad? That’s like leaving Jonny Wilkinson at home in 2001.

Three Lions tours (2013, 2017, 2021), over 100 England caps, and multiple Six Nations titles, including a Grand Slam in 2016. He captained England to the World Cup final in 2019, and boasts a kicking percentage that makes calculators jealous.

Sure, he’s been out of the England setup recently after his move to Racing 92 — and his style isn’t universally adored. But when it comes to game management, defensive steel, and sheer leadership presence, few can touch him. If form or injury bites elsewhere at 10 or 12, Farrell is the emergency red phone call waiting to happen.

Willis has been one of the best opensides in Europe this season — and he’s not even playing in England. Since Wasps’ collapse sent him to Toulouse, he’s gone from promising to world-class. His performances in the Top 14 and Champions Cup have made jaws drop and stat sheets explode.

He was Player of the Match in England’s 2023 Six Nations win over Italy and consistently posts insane turnover numbers. He’s not just a fetcher; he tackles like a wrecking ball, carries with venom, and thrives under pressure.

The only knock? Availability. French clubs don’t always play nice with international windows. But if the stars align, Willis could be one of the first names on the replacement list — especially if the Lions want to slow Aussie ball at source.

Darcy Graham is Scotland’s answer to Cheslin Kolbe — small, rapid, uncontainable. Despite standing at just 5’9”, he’s a nightmare for defenders, with elite footwork and an eye for the line. He recently equalled Scotland’s all-time try-scoring record and has bagged 24 tries in 39 Tests (and counting).

He scorched Wales and England with braces in back-to-back Six Nations games, and if there’s one thing Lions coaches always

Graham is a firecracker, and if an injury opens a wing slot, expect him to light it up. He’s the definition of “box office.”

To make this a little bit more difficult, some of the more recent tours included multiple captains, with both needed to be named if you want to ace this Lions Tour quiz. You have six minutes to get all of your answers down, and your time starts... Now!