Andy Farrell's five nailed-on picks for the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour
Rugby NewsFriday, 29 November 2024 at 20:53
bringing a wealth of international experience and physicality.
The buzz around the British & Irish Lions tour of Australia in 2025 is growing louder, and the bookies have weighed in with their early predictions. While seasoned campaigners are expected to headline the squad, a few new faces could also earn their coveted Lions caps.
After Ireland’s final clash of the autumn against Australia, Andy Farrell will step aside from his national duties to focus full-time on leading the Lions. The odds tell us who might already have their bags packed for next summer’s adventure Down Under. Here are the top five players almost guaranteed to make the cut.
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Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland) – 1/20
The Scrum-Half Maestro
Jamison Gibson-Park, born in New Zealand, made his Irish debut in 2020 and has been instrumental in Ireland’s rise to the top of the rugby world rankings. Known for his quick thinking, precision passing, and electric pace, he’s become the heartbeat of Ireland’s attack. Having starred in the Six Nations and the Rugby World Cup, he’s a clear favorite to dictate the tempo for the Lions.
Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland) – 1/16
The Bulldozing Wing
Born in South Africa, Duhan van der Merwe qualified for Scotland through residency and has been lighting up the international stage since 2020. Standing at 6’4” and weighing over 100kg, he’s a nightmare for defenders, combining raw power with deceptive speed. A standout performer on the 2021 Lions tour, he’s almost certain to reprise his role as a go-to weapon in 2025.
Finn Russell (Scotland) – 1/10
The Maverick Fly-Half
Few players light up a game like Finn Russell. The flamboyant Scot, known for his audacious passes and creative flair, has a knack for turning games on their head. With over 70 caps for Scotland, Russell’s experience and unpredictability make him a perfect fit for the Lions. This could be his final chance to leave a lasting legacy on the biggest stage.
Maro Itoje (England) – 1/33
The Defensive Wall
Maro Itoje is the embodiment of dominance in the pack. The Saracens lock has been a cornerstone of England’s forward unit since his debut in 2016. A veteran of two Lions tours already, Itoje’s lineout prowess, tireless work rate, and game-changing turnovers make him a near-certainty for a third tour. At 29, he’s at the peak of his powers.
Caelan Doris (Ireland) – 1/25
The Dynamic Back-Rower
Caelan Doris has rapidly cemented his place as one of the best back-rowers in the game. Hailing from Mayo, the Irish number eight’s ability to dominate the breakdown and carry with relentless intensity has earned him comparisons to Lions legends. At just 26, he’s expected to play a pivotal role in the squad’s success next year.
2025 BRITISH & IRISH LIONS SQUAD (36)
BACK-THREE (6)
The back-three boasts a dynamic mix, with Duhan van der Merwe and James Lowe bringing powerful running and finishing ability. Tommy Freeman and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso are tipped to add youthful flair and speed, while Hugo Keenan and Darcy Graham round out the squad with their solid defensive skills.
CENTRE (4)
In the centre, Bundee Aki is a strong favorite for his physicality, while Ollie Lawrence has made a name for himself with his impressive form. Sione Tuipulotu and Robbie Henshaw provide additional versatility and experience.
- Bundee Aki (Ireland) - 1/5
- Ollie Lawrence (England) - 1/4
- Sione Tuipulotu (Scotland) - 2/7
- Robbie Henshaw (Ireland) - 8/11
FLY-HALVES (3)
The fly-half selection highlights Finn Russell’s creativity and flair, with Marcus Smith and George Ford both showcasing tactical nous and playmaking ability.
- Finn Russell (Scotland) - 1/10
- Marcus Smith (England) - 8/15
- Owen Farrell (England) - 8/11
SCRUM-HALVES (3)
A competitive scrum-half group sees Jamison Gibson-Park favored for his quick service and decision-making, while Alex Mitchell and Ben White are both strong contenders.
- Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland) - 1/20
- Alex Mitchell (England) - 11/10
- Ben White (Scotland) - 11/10
PROP (3)
The front row is anchored by stalwarts like Tadhg Furlong and Andrew Porter, while Ellis Genge and Joe Marler add depth and experience.
- Tadhg Furlong (Ireland) - 1/8
- Andrew Porter (Ireland) - 1/7
- Zander Fagerson (Scotland) - 4/11
- Ellis Genge (England) - 4/6
- Joe Marler (England) - 5/6
- Pierre Schoeman (Scotland) - 5/4
HOOKER (3)
With Dan Sheehan leading the way, the hookers are expected to be agile and mobile, crucial for the fast-paced style of play the Lions aim to adopt.
- Dan Sheehan (Ireland) - 1/10
- Jamie George (England) - 8/15
- Elliot Dee (Wales) - 6/5
LOCK (5)
In the locks, Maro Itoje remains a cornerstone, complemented by Tadhg Beirne’s athleticism and versatility.
- Maro Itoje (England) - 1/33
- Tadhg Beirne (Ireland) - 1/10
- Joe McCarthy (Ireland) - 4/6
- Ollie Chessum (England) - 8/11
- George Martin (England) - 11/10
BACK-ROW (6)
Finally, the back row combines experience and dynamism, with Josh van der Flier and Courtney Lawes
- Caelan Doris (Ireland) - 1/24
- Ben Earl (England) - 1/5
- Josh van der Flier (Ireland) - 1/3
- Courtney Lawes (England) - 8/15
- Tommy Reffell (Wales) - 4/6
- Rory Darge (Scotland) - 6/4
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