**Jac Morgan Earns Widespread Acclaim Following Standout Lions Performance Against Queensland Reds**
British & Irish Lions flanker Jac Morgan has drawn admiration from across the rugby world following a sparkling man-of-the-match performance during the Lions’ emphatic 52-12 win over the Queensland Reds in Brisbane. Among those to heap praise on the Welsh forward was incoming Ospreys signing Ryan Smith, who faced Morgan in what turned out to be his final outing for the Australian Super Rugby side.
The match not only highlighted Morgan’s immense talent, but also provided Smith—who has played more than 70 games for the Reds—with a fitting send-off before starting a new chapter with the Ospreys in the United Rugby Championship next season. Smith, who is set to fill the gap left by Adam Beard, was frank in his admiration for his soon-to-be team-mate, describing Morgan as “world-class” and admitting the back-row star had posed plenty of challenges on the pitch. “He was player of the match again tonight. It was great to meet him, although he was pretty tough on me a couple of times,” Smith reflected post-match.
Smith’s departure from Queensland marks the end of what he described as the best period of his playing career. He admitted shedding tears after his final Super Rugby play-off against the Crusaders and said he would cherish his experiences with the Reds for years to come. Now preparing for life in Wales, Smith is already looking ahead to new responsibilities and exciting prospects. “Everyone at the Ospreys has been incredibly welcoming, making the transition smooth for both me and my family,” he said. “I’m eager to see how I can develop my game even further in a new environment.”
As the Toowoomba native embarks upon this major shift, he acknowledged a soft spot for returning to Queensland one day, but says his focus is squarely on the challenges that lie ahead with the Ospreys and in European rugby. “It’s all come together nicely—my final home game, play-offs, and now a chance to play against the Lions. My hope is to come back here one day, but for now, my sights are on Wales.”
Morgan’s performance didn’t just earn praise from direct opponents; it sparked positive reactions throughout the rugby community. Lions head coach Andy Farrell didn’t hold back in his assessment, suggesting Morgan’s showing was one of genuine international pedigree. “If he keeps performing like this, he really can play anywhere,” Farrell said. “His work rate, offloading game, and defensive aggression made a huge impact. The competition for places has truly begun.”
Wales and Lions legend Sam Warburton joined the chorus, analysing Morgan’s efforts for Sky Sports. Warburton suggested the Welshman had “put a flag in the ground” for a coveted Test spot against Australia, particularly after seizing his moment following a solid but unspectacular game against Argentina. “You’re always just one game from proving your value or losing your place,” Warburton said. “Jac has certainly marked himself out. He more than deserved man of the match honours.”
The positive momentum has now seen Morgan named among the replacements for the Lions’ forthcoming fixture in Sydney against the Waratahs, further underlining the high esteem he currently enjoys within the touring squad.
With the Lions’ tour diary still to unfold, much will depend on whether Morgan can maintain these high standards and translate his form into the Test arena. For now, the consensus is clear: the Welshman is playing the best rugby of his career and is fast becoming a cornerstone of the squad.
For supporters and neutrals alike, Morgan’s rise has added an exciting dynamic to this year’s Lions tour, and the continued development of both Morgan and Ryan Smith will be watched closely as one heads deeper into Lions territory and the other begins a fresh journey in Welsh rugby.