**British & Irish Lions Star Tom Curry to Undergo Wrist Surgery as Wallabies Criticism Emerges**
In a bustling evening of rugby updates, significant news has emerged concerning British & Irish Lions flanker Tom Curry, who is reportedly set to undergo surgery for a lingering wrist ligament issue. This revelation comes hot on the heels of the conclusion of the Lions’ dramatic tour in Australia, where Curry’s performances were lauded by many, despite his ongoing injury.
Curry, whose robust play earned him high praise from Lions head coach Andy Farrell—who described him as a “machine” after standout displays throughout the Test series—had been managing a wrist problem for some time. Despite being a pivotal force during the matches, repeatedly putting his body on the line and scoring tries in the first two Tests while topping the tackle charts in the third, the Sale Sharks flanker had evidently delayed surgery in order to partake fully in the Lions’ campaign down under.
Before the recent tour, Sale Sharks director of rugby Alex Sanderson had stated candidly that Curry would require surgery, yet described the England player as “superhuman” for choosing to play through the discomfort and risk associated with his injury. “It’s not something that has restricted his game minutes or training,” Sanderson noted at the time, highlighting Curry’s resilience and commitment to his squad. Medical staff and specialists were aware of the risks, but it was collectively decided that, for as long as he could manage pain and function effectively, Curry’s place in the team would not be jeopardised.
The alternative, Sanderson pointed out, would have been an immediate operation—a route which might have seen Curry miss the latter part of the tour and perhaps the opening matches, given the competitive nature for his position. “He had to see if he could manage it because the competition within the team was immense,” said Sanderson.
Alongside injury news, robust opinions have surfaced following the tour outcome. Former Australian rugby legend David Campese has weighed in with critical remarks regarding the Lions, labelling their performance as “a microwave meal version” compared with the “banquet feasts” of previous tours. While Farrell’s squad claimed the series victory by winning the first two Tests, Campese felt their efforts lacked the historical weight and memorable moments typically associated with Lions tours.
Expanding on his criticisms in a column for Planet Rugby, Campese was particularly damning of the Lions’ overall approach, drawing a contrast between them and Joe Schmidt’s Wallabies, whom he praised for making remarkable progress. Of particular note was his pointed commentary on Ireland’s James Ryan, whom Campese claimed was “terrorised” by the imposing figure of Australia’s Will Skelton. “Skelton owns him every time they meet on the field,” the 62-year-old argued, suggesting a recurring trend in their matchups.
Campese also voiced the opinion that coach Andy Farrell appeared to treat the series as “an Irish development tour,” contesting that the selection of leading Irish players like Bundee Aki, James Lowe, and Andrew Porter may not have always reflected the best available talent at the time. He suggested that, although some individuals have enjoyed international success in friendly Tests, they have yet to make their mark in truly significant competitions such as the World Cup.
In other rugby news, Leicester Tigers legend Dan Cole has embarked on a new chapter following his retirement from professional play at the end of last season. Renowned for his 388 appearances with Leicester and his combined 121 England and Lions caps, Cole has now taken up the post of recruitment and retention manager at the club. He is set to work closely with Geoff Parling, the new head coach, to help align the club’s senior squad and pathway programmes, marking the start of what the club hopes will be another distinguished era.
Welcoming Cole to his new role, Tigers CEO Andrea Pinchen highlighted the former prop’s professionalism, attention to detail, and enduring commitment to the club. “There is no doubt Dan will be a great fit as we refresh our staffing structure and look to the future,” she commented.
These breaking developments provide a dynamic snapshot of the current rugby landscape, underscoring the physical demands faced by elite players and the fierce debates that continue to characterise the international game.