**Jac Morgan Opens Up on Lions Omission and the Dream of a Test Appearance**
Wales skipper Jac Morgan has spoken candidly about his battle to overcome the disappointment of missing out on selection for the first British and Irish Lions Test, as he sets his sights on the chance to earn his maiden Lions Test cap in the tour’s remaining matches in Australia.
Morgan, who leads his country and is widely regarded as one of the outstanding back-rowers in European rugby, was side-lined in favour of England’s Tom Curry for the opening Test against the Wallabies in Brisbane. Despite this setback, Morgan responded by putting in a solid shift during the Lions’ midweek victory over the First Nations and Pasifika XV in Melbourne, where he played for 50 minutes before being withdrawn—potentially with an eye on featuring in the second Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Reflecting on his emotions, the Ospreys flanker admitted that missing out was tough but he remains determined to seize any opportunity that comes his way. “To play in a Test for the Lions would be a huge honour and something I’d cherish massively,” explained Morgan. He described the past week as one of reflection but stressed that his approach to training and matches remains unchanged. “My focus is always to work hard, perform as best as I can, and keep improving.”
Competition in the back-row is notoriously fierce, with Morgan acknowledging the outstanding displays from Tom Curry as well as fellow flanker Josh van der Flier. “It’s always a high standard to live up to and we really drive each other to be better,” Morgan commented. He paid homage to Curry’s tireless work-rate, on and off the ball, saying, “Watching Tom’s relentless energy and commitment is inspiring—it’s something I’m learning from and trying to integrate into my own game.”
The sense of responsibility Morgan feels has heightened as he now stands as the only Welsh representative amongst an expanded touring squad of 45, following an unfortunate injury to teammate Tomos Williams. For Welsh supporters back home, weighed down by recent uncertainties in their domestic rugby, Morgan’s presence Down Under has offered a rare moment of optimism and pride.
Admitting the pressure and privilege of carrying his nation’s hopes, Morgan said, “It’s hard to put into words how much it means. I’m just focused on making my family, my home village, and everyone back in Wales proud. It was a blow to lose Tomos—he’s been in great form and I was gutted for him.”
One of the most striking elements of the Lions’ trip so far has been the passion and encouragement from fans, particularly those flying the Welsh flag in Australia. Morgan noted that he was able to hear the support booming around the stadium, describing the atmosphere as “incredible” and the experience as “very special.” Supporters have gone above and beyond, with Morgan face-masks spotted in the stands and a group of his closest friends making the journey from Wales to lend their voice.
“It’s amazing hearing those chants out there, and seeing so many familiar faces in the crowd,” he said. “There’s a massive Welsh presence here in Australia, and to see the support pouring in means a great deal—not just to me but, I think, to rugby in Wales as a whole.”
Morgan was keen to highlight how much it meant to have his family and friends watching on. “Some of my best mates and a load from my first club, Cwmtwrch, are here. Not all of them could make it, but there’s a good crowd. Their backing really lifts you.”
As the Lions prepare for the pivotal second Test, the focus intensifies not just on the battle with Australia, but for Morgan and others on the cusp of selection, it’s about grasping a rare and defining moment. Rugby followers from each nation represented in the squad will undoubtedly be hoping Morgan gets the opportunity to achieve his boyhood dream—a Test cap that would secure his place in Lions history and provide a beacon of pride for Welsh rugby at a time when it is sorely needed.