Ireland international fly-half set to replace Handre Pollard at Leicester Tigers

Find your local Greene King and settle in to the Six Nations!

The 25-year-old was Ireland’s go-to fly-half in last year’s Six Nations triumph, starting every game. But fast forward to this year, and he’s yet to make a single start, with young sensation Sam Prendergast leapfrogging him in Simon Easterby’s pecking order.

Despite falling down the ranks in the Ireland setup, Crowley remains Munster’s undisputed first-choice No.10 and a key figure in their pursuit of domestic and European glory. But a move away from Ireland would come at a huge cost—his Test career. Under IRFU selection rules, any switch to Leicester would see Crowley ruled out of international contention.

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With South African World Cup winner Handré Pollard set to depart alongside head coach Michael Cheika, Leicester are hunting for a marquee No.10 to lead their backline. Crowley’s expiring Munster contract and lack of a central IRFU deal make him an obvious target, and Tigers are ready to break the bank.

The club had been linked with Ross Byrne before he opted for Gloucester, leaving them still searching for Pollard’s successor. Now, all eyes are on Crowley—who faces the toughest decision of his career. Stick with Munster and fight for his Ireland spot? Or cash in with Leicester and risk sacrificing his international future?

While established names dominate predictions, a few unexpected players are forcing their way into contention.

Whether it's experienced heads rediscovering form or rising stars making a statement, here are four potential bolters who could book a ticket to Australia next year.

A "bolter" is usually an uncapped or emerging star, but Elliot Daly is flipping that narrative. Already a two-time Lions tourist (2017, 2021), the England utility back wasn’t in many early squad predictions.

However, his composed performances this Six Nations have made Farrell take notice. With five Lions Test caps and the ability to cover multiple positions, Daly’s experience could prove invaluable when selection time comes around.

Jac Morgan is one of the few Welsh players making a genuine case for Lions selection. Despite Wales' struggles, the dynamic flanker has shone, earning praise from Sam Warburton, who even tipped him as a potential tour captain.

Tough at the breakdown, relentless in defence, and an intelligent leader, Morgan is proving he belongs at the highest level. If he keeps performing, his Lions ticket could be a certainty.

Scotland’s former captain is finding form at exactly the right time. Ritchie has been immense in recent games, showcasing his breakdown prowess, defensive solidity, and lineout ability.

While Scotland's back-row competition is fierce, his relentless work rate and leadership qualities set him apart. If he maintains this level, Farrell could see him as a crucial piece of the Lions puzzle, particularly against Australia’s physical pack.

Freeman is going from strength to strength in this Six Nations. His latest display against Italy highlighted his work rate, power, and eye for the try-line.

Currently sitting second in the tournament’s try-scoring charts, he is proving to be one of England’s most dangerous attacking threats. With his blend of pace and physicality, Freeman is making a serious case for a Lions spot—if he keeps this up, he’ll be impossible to overlook.