The British & Irish Lions are gearing up for their second clash on Australian soil, and Head Coach Andy Farrell has unveiled a formidable squad set to take on the Queensland Reds this Wednesday at Suncorp Stadium. Excitement is building as the Lions look to continue their Tour with a strong performance.
A Captain’s Return and Fresh Combinations
In a significant development, Saracens and England lock Maro Itoje returns to captain the side, bringing his immense experience and leadership to the fore. He’ll be joined in the second row by fellow countryman and Leicester Tiger Ollie Chessum, forming a powerful partnership that will be crucial at the set-piece.
The front row sees a Leinster and Ireland dominant trio with prop Andrew Porter and hooker Ronan Kelleher packing down alongside Bath Rugby and England tight-head Will Stuart. This combination promises a strong scrum platform against the Reds.
Back Row Power and Debut Excitement
The back row welcomes Leinster and Ireland No. 8 Jack Conan for his first start of the Tour. He’s joined by the dynamic duo of Sale Sharks and England’s Tom Curry and Ospreys and Wales’ Jac Morgan, creating a balanced and tenacious loose forward trio.
The backline sees some thrilling new faces and partnerships. Leinster and Ireland full-back Hugo Keenan will make his highly anticipated Lions debut, adding pace and precision to the backfield. He’ll be supported by Northampton Saints and England wing Tommy Freeman and Edinburgh Rugby and Scotland’s formidable Duhan van der Merwe.
In the midfield, a new centre partnership emerges with Connacht Rugby and Ireland’s Bundee Aki linking up with Glasgow Warriors and Scotland’s Huw Jones, promising a blend of power and creativity. Scotland and Bath Rugby’s Finn Russell retains the No. 10 jersey, and Leinster and Ireland scrum-half Jamison Gibson-Park makes his Lions debut, ready to unleash his quick-fire service.
Coach Farrell’s Thoughts
Lions Head Coach Andy Farrell expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming challenge, stating, “We know each game on this Tour will be a step up from the game before and three more players are set to make their Lions debuts on Wednesday night, so congratulations to those guys.”
Match Details
The game kicks off at 11:00 AM BST on Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025, and will be broadcast live on SKY in the UK and Ireland. Fans will be hoping for a repeat of the 2013 fixture against the Reds, where the Lions secured a 22-12 victory.
Get ready for an electrifying encounter as the Lions continue their journey Down Under! Who are you most excited to see in action?
