## Jac Morgan Earns Starting Place as Lions Name Squad for Final Midweek Clash
In a decisive bit of squad rotation, Wales captain Jac Morgan has been included in the starting line-up for the British and Irish Lions as they gear up for their concluding midweek encounter on the 2025 Australian tour. With Owen Farrell chosen to captain the side for the first time from inside centre, anticipation is building for the contest against the First Nations and Pasifika XV in Melbourne this Tuesday.
Both Morgan and Ireland’s Josh van der Flier find themselves in the spotlight, having been overlooked for last Saturday’s first Test victory over Australia in Brisbane—a match which saw England’s Tom Curry turn in an exceptional display at Suncorp Stadium. Curry’s performance sets a high bar for his back-row colleagues, who are likely eager to demonstrate their own credentials ahead of the upcoming second Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. Also in the back row is rising English No. 8 Henry Pollock, with all three doubtless aware that strong outings could force changes to Andy Farrell’s Test selection.
Owen Farrell, the former England skipper, gets his chance to lead the legendary touring side, partnering Ireland’s Jamie Osborne in the midfield. This marks a significant moment for Farrell, who as captain commands respect and will hope to stake his own claim for further Test involvement. Speaking to the media ahead of the clash, head coach Andy Farrell emphasised the importance of this match as a final opportunity for players to impress: “The coaches’ minds are open when it comes to selection, they have to be with so many players performing and pushing for places and we want that to continue for the remaining two Tests.”
Scotland’s Blair Kinghorn makes his return from injury to take the starting full-back jersey, after a mixed showing from the Lions back-three in the opening Test. He is joined by compatriots Darcy Graham, a late addition to the squad, and Duhan van der Merwe on the wings, ensuring an all-Scottish back-three. In the halves, Scotland’s Ben White links up with young England fly-half Fin Smith, forming a novel partnership tasked with driving the attack.
Up front, the front-row trio comprises Pierre Schoeman, Jamie George and Finlay Bealham, suggesting an intent to match the physicality and flair typical of Pasifika opposition. James Ryan and Scott Cummings, both noted for their prowess in the engine room, start at lock. With Irish lock Joe McCarthy an injury doubt following an early withdrawal in Brisbane, there could be heightened competition for places among the second rowers.
The bench features a blend of returning faces and late call-ups. Ireland’s Garry Ringrose is fit again and hoping to make a mark from the substitutes, while English trio Ben Earl, Alex Mitchell, and Marcus Smith offer impactful options after their cameos in the opening Test. The replacements are rounded out by Scottish newcomers Ewan Ashman, Rory Sutherland and Gregor Brown, all having joined the touring party just as they touched down in Melbourne.
Andy Farrell’s squad selection reflects both the depth of talent available and the pressure on established players to hold onto their jerseys. “This fixture gives players another opportunity to put their hand up for selection for the final two Tests,” noted Farrell, making it clear that places remain very much up for grabs.
For many of those taking to the field on Tuesday, the match will be more than just a warm-up—it is a crucial audition for the main event, with the hopes of representing the Lions in a Test against the Wallabies perhaps resting on their performance. With the Lions bruised but buoyant after a gritty win in the series opener, the stakes are high, and the sense of competition for Test spots is palpable.
Tuesday’s match against a talented and physical First Nations and Pasifika XV promises to be a stern test, as the Lions continue their storied tradition of uniting the best of British and Irish rugby for a tour like no other. Rugby fans can expect an intense encounter, with selections for the remaining Test matches likely to hang in the balance depending on display in Melbourne.