Owen Farrell given brutal player rating with Lions chances fading fast

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From Courtney Lawes dominating in France’s second tier to Jack Willis continuing his freakish form for Toulouse, there are serious contenders knocking on the door for 2025 Lions selection.

But not everyone’s stocks are rising. Owen Farrell, once the nailed-on Test captain, has been handed a tough score as doubts continue to swirl about his form and future role.

Here’s how the overseas England stars were rated – and what it means for their Lions hopes.

The Telegraph wrote:
"Lawes walks the walk and talks the talk, declaring on Dan Biggar’s podcast that he’d back himself to make the Lions Test side if selected. He’s been outstanding for Brive this season, captaining the team and excelling in both the second and back row. His leadership, physicality, and consistent form—even in Pro D2—have made him impossible to ignore."

RUCK verdict:
He might be in the French second tier, but Lawes is playing like a man with unfinished Lions business. Versatile, respected, and still a physical freak—he’s bang in the mix for a third tour.

The Telegraph wrote:
"Ribbans was immense during Toulon’s narrow loss to Toulouse, following up a 15-tackle effort against Saracens with another 15. His robust carrying, lineout work, and relentless work rate have made him a fan favourite in France. While Toulon’s playoff run could complicate selection logistics, Ribbans’ current form is among the best of any lock eligible for the Lions."

RUCK verdict:
A man-mountain in the engine room. Ribbans is smashing down the Lions door with his relentless form—he’s making the idea of leaving him out look ridiculous.

The Telegraph wrote:
"Willis delivered another commanding display against Sale, even with officials keeping a close eye on him at the breakdown. Despite two penalties, he bounced back with a powerful close-range try. His post-contact metres were unmatched across all quarter-finals, and his consistent impact for Toulouse keeps him firmly in Lions contention—though Top 14 commitments might delay his availability until later in the tour."

RUCK verdict:
Jack “The Jackal” Willis is everywhere right now. His physicality, defensive work, and nose for the try-line scream Lions starter—if they can get him there in time.

The Telegraph wrote:
"Sinckler has shown flashes of his quality in Toulon colours, particularly with his handling skills. But after recovering from a broken arm and struggling at times in the scrum, he was omitted from the quarter-final squad entirely. With other tightheads currently in stronger form, Sinckler’s Lions hopes may rest more on past pedigree than present performance."

RUCK verdict:
Two-time tourist, but this feels like one trip too far. Sinckler needs a serious surge in form to stay in the conversation—right now, others are simply doing more.

The Telegraph wrote:
"It’s been a joy to see Tuilagi string together consistent appearances for Bayonne, featuring in 15 games and helping them into the Top 14’s top four. While others have had more recent Test exposure, his blend of power and experience remains unique. If selected, a return to Australia would be a full-circle Lions story 12 years after his debut tour."

RUCK verdict:
The ultimate redemption arc? Tuilagi’s staying fit and firing—and if he’s fit, he’s always dangerous. Sentimental pick or genuine weapon? Maybe both.

The Telegraph wrote:
"Farrell’s half-hour off the bench against Connacht was perhaps his most confident outing yet for Racing. He nailed a drop goal and caused disruption with trademark bombs and ruck involvements. However, a late yellow card for dangerous contact nearly cost his team the win. Still not goal-kicking, and with other fly-halves in better form, his Lions inclusion remains in doubt."

RUCK verdict:
Still a warrior—but not the force he once was. Farrell’s form flickers in moments, but the shine’s faded. The Lions may be moving on.

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