Lions 23 for the Third Test against the Wallabies: Duhan van der Merwe starts

A 3-0 clean sweep against one of the Southern Hemisphere giants—South Africa, New Zealand, or Australia—has never been achieved in the Lions’ modern era. Andy Farrell's squad now has the opportunity to write their names in the record books.

Here's our predicted matchday 23 for the Sydney Test—featuring a balance of tour standouts, tactical adjustments, and a few fresh faces.

RUCK’s Lions content is powered by ISUZU.

15. Blair Kinghorn
It would be unfortunate for a player of Kinghorn’s calibre to leave the tour without a Test start. Injury and Top 14 commitments have disrupted his involvement, but with Hugo Keenan slightly off his best despite scoring the winner in Test Two, this is Kinghorn’s chance to shine. His versatility is also a major asset.

14. Mack Hansen
Fitness permitting, Hansen deserves his shot. He looked sharp in the warm-ups before injury struck. With James Lowe and Tommy Freeman failing to impress, Hansen offers a much-needed spark.

13. Huw Jones
Jones has become a clear favourite under Farrell. With the series won but history at stake, he’s unlikely to be rotated out.

12. Bundee Aki
If Sione Tuipulotu recovers, the “Huwipulotu” pairing may return. If not, Aki steps in after a solid showing in Melbourne.

11. Duhan van der Merwe
Lowe hasn’t made the expected impact, opening the door for Van der Merwe’s power and pace to be reintroduced on the wing.

10. Finn Russell
Virtually undroppable. One of the world’s most influential playmakers and a consistent game-changer.

9. Alex Mitchell
While Jamison Gibson-Park has been excellent, Mitchell deserves a start. He brings a different energy and suits the Test match tempo.

1. Andrew Porter
The Porter-Genge rotation has worked perfectly. Expect no changes to the starting role here.

2. Dan Sheehan
Arguably the standout Lion on tour. Sheehan has set the standard from hooker and remains first choice by some margin.

3. Tadhg Furlong
Another pick that needs no debate. Furlong to start, with Will Stuart again providing impact off the bench.

4. Maro Itoje (Captain)
Leader and talisman. No question here—Itoje is a lock in every sense.

5. Ollie Chessum
Brings mobility and work rate, complementing Itoje well. Joe McCarthy may feel unlucky, but Chessum keeps the shirt.

6. Tadhg Beirne
Outstanding at blindside. He brings balance, breakdown dominance, and dynamism—undroppable in this context.

7. Tom Curry
A proven Test-level competitor. Curry thrives in high-stakes matches and will be key to chasing the clean sweep.

8. Ben Earl
Jack Conan hasn’t fully convinced. Earl’s ball-carrying ability and energy around the park could give the Lions the edge they need in Sydney.

16. Ronan Kelleher
The established second-choice hooker. Reliable and impactful off the bench.

17. Ellis Genge
His role as an impact sub has proven effective, especially against tiring defences. No need to change a working formula.

18. Will Stuart
Strong, consistent, and a proven bench performer. Will retain his role.

19. Joe McCarthy
If fit, McCarthy may consider himself unlucky not to start, but he’s still one of the best locks on tour and offers strength in reserve.

20. Jac Morgan
Despite a contentious clearout in the second Test, Morgan brought fire and physicality. A passionate competitor who deserves another shot.

21. Jamison Gibson-Park
A world-class option to bring on late in the game. His experience and tempo make him an ideal bench weapon.

22. Owen Farrell
Not his sharpest outing last time, but his leadership and composure remain invaluable. His presence could steady the ship if needed.

23. Tommy Freeman
Could be lethal against a tired Wallabies defence. If the game needs a spark late on, Freeman has the potential to deliver it.