Overview

• Andy Farrell will announce the British & Irish Lions squad on May 8 at London’s O2 Arena, marking the first live event for such an announcement.
• Maro Itoje is the frontrunner for captaincy after Ireland’s Caelan Doris was sidelined by a shoulder injury requiring surgery, ruling him out of contention.
• Ireland’s Mack Hansen is also facing a five-week recovery from injury but could return in time for the pre-tour match against Argentina on June 20.
• Fly-half positions are expected to go to Finn Russell, Fin Smith, and Sam Prendergast, reflecting a mix of experience and emerging talent.
• The Lions' tour schedule includes a warm-up match in Dublin and three Tests against the Wallabies, starting in Brisbane on July 19.