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2d ago

Lions Squad Expands to 44 as Farrell Faces First Test Selection

The enlarged touring party tests Farrell’s selection decisions with injury absences, late call-ups, plus a public drive for a series whitewash.

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Overview

  • The Lions completed a 48-0 rout of an Australia-New Zealand invitational side in Adelaide to seal five straight wins and have since added Rory Sutherland, Ewan Ashman and Darcy Graham to swell the squad to 44 players.
  • Head coach Andy Farrell says naming his 23-man side for the Brisbane opener on July 19 will be “unbelievably difficult” as he weighs form, versatility and squad harmony.
  • Key injuries have sidelined centre Garry Ringrose, left hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie doubtful and put Blair Kinghorn’s first-Test availability in question, prompting further front-row cover additions.
  • Flanker Henry Pollock has declared that a 3-0 series whitewash is on the table as the Lions publicly set their sights on becoming one of the best touring teams ever.
  • Former All Blacks coach Ian Foster warns that Australia’s breakdown pressure and the challenge of keeping a large squad motivated through tough selection could trouble the favourites.