Andy Farrell explains why he snubbed Farrell and Prendergast in favour of Marcus Smith

Friday, 09 May 2025 at 09:36

bySteven Smith

England star Marcus Smith has been included in the British and Irish Lions squad for 2025—and it’s his versatility that made him a must-pick for Andy Farrell.

Competition: Get a Chance to Watch the Lions in Australia

The Harlequins magician beat out the likes of George Ford, Owen Farrell and Sam Prendergast to be named as the third fly-half in the 38-man squad, but it wasn’t just his form at 10 that swung the decision.

Smith, a 2021 tourist, has increasingly featured at full-back for England, including four of their Six Nations Tests earlier this year. That ability to double up proved crucial in Farrell’s eyes.

“Marcus isn’t competing with George Ford or Sam Prendergast, because he can play 10,15 or 15, 10. Those lads are competing with Finn (Russell) and Fin (Smith),” the head coach explained.

Smith’s name was reportedly in the mix from the start—largely as a utility option—and Farrell didn’t shy away from highlighting the value that brings.

He added: “For a player who gets thought about in a couple of different positions, you’d think ‘I want to nail down a position’ or ‘I want to be a starter’ etc, but what it does do for a tour like this; we all know the schedule, it’s about the preparation, the training and sometimes people being able to slot into a different position because with all the permutations that could happen.”

The Unpicked XV: 2025 British & Irish Lions Tour to Australia

1. Nicky Smith (Wales)

An experienced loosehead with over 50 caps for Wales, Smith remains one of the most consistent scrummagers in the game.

2. Jamie George (England)

The veteran hooker and 2021 Lions tourist missed out this time despite being one of England's most reliable performers and a respected leader.

3. Kyle Sinckler (England)

Known for his explosive ball-carrying and fiery passion, Sinckler’s form and location overseas weren’t enough to secure a third Lions tour.

4. Jonny Gray (Scotland)

A lineout expert and tackling machine, Gray has struggled with injuries recently, ruling him out of contention for Australia.

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5. Grant Gilchrist (Scotland)

One of Scotland’s most experienced locks, Gilchrist’s leadership and work rate have been invaluable, but he misses out once more.

6. Courtney Lawes (England)

A Lions stalwart and former England captain, Lawes confirmed his international retirement earlier this year, ending his Lions journey.

7. Jack Willis (England)

A breakdown menace with a relentless engine, Willis has impressed abroad but may have missed out due to playing outside the UK.

8. Taulupe Faletau (Wales)

One of the finest No.8s of his generation, Faletau has been sidelined through injury, robbing him of a potential fourth Lions tour.

9. Ben White (Scotland)

Scotland's first-choice scrum-half has been a steady performer internationally, but couldn't edge out the fierce competition for the Lions.

10. Owen Farrell (England)

The former Lions captain and England centurion ruled himself out of international duty in late 2024, prioritising family and mental wellbeing.

11. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (England)

A breakout star of the 2024 Six Nations, the young wing lit up the tournament but narrowly missed selection on this occasion.

12. Robbie Henshaw / Manu Tuilagi (Ireland/England)

Both powerhouse centres boast extensive Lions pedigree. Henshaw’s injury woes and Tuilagi’s patchy form ultimately saw them miss out.

13. Henry Slade (England)

One of the most elegant and versatile backs in the northern hemisphere, Slade is again overlooked despite consistent form.

14. Darcy Graham (Scotland)

The dynamic utility back has added polish to his raw talent but couldn’t squeeze into the highly competitive Lions back three.

15. George Furbank (England)

A confident and elusive fullback, Furbank’s excellent form under Steve Borthwick wasn’t quite enough to force a late inclusion.