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Schmidt Turns to Tom Lynagh at Fly-Half for Lions Series Opener

Injuries to Noah Lolesio have forced coach Joe Schmidt to entrust the 22-year-old with his first Test start.

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Overview

  • Coach Joe Schmidt confirmed Tom Lynagh will wear the No.10 jersey in Saturday’s first Test at Suncorp Stadium, ahead of Ben Donaldson and James O’Connor.
  • Lynagh, son of former Wallaby Michael Lynagh, makes his first Test start after only three previous appearances off the bench.
  • Noah Lolesio’s neck surgery ruled him out of the series, creating an opening that Schmidt filled with the young playmaker.
  • The breakdown contest, led by openside Fraser McReight, is expected to be pivotal for the Wallabies to secure quick front-foot ball.
  • Despite the Lions’ unbeaten tour record and ambitions of a 3-0 sweep, captain Harry Wilson says the Wallabies are confident after a thorough preparation week.