**Rugby Union Round-Up: O’Connor Secures Shock Wallabies Recall in Late Lions Twist**
In an eventful day for international rugby, the biggest talking point comes from Australia, where former Wallabies star James O’Connor has made a dramatic return to the national set-up ahead of the highly-anticipated British and Irish Lions Test series. Announced live from Brisbane overnight by head coach Joe Schmidt, the 35-year-old playmaker was handed a surprise place in the Australian Test squad, reigniting his international career after a prolonged absence.
O’Connor’s recall comes as Noah Lolesio continues his recovery from recent neck surgery, leaving Schmidt to look for experienced options to bolster his squad before the series opener at Suncorp Stadium next Saturday. The exiles’ return marks a full circle for O’Connor, who last wore Wallabies colours in a Test series back in 2012. Since then, he has set up camp in Brisbane, revitalising his game with the Crusaders and training with the Queensland Reds. His successful stint with the Super Rugby champions has made it impossible for selectors to ignore his form, and now he stands on the brink of emulating Australia legend George Smith, by featuring against the Lions a decade apart.
Adding another layer to the Wallabies selection story, Tom Lynagh’s inclusion in the Test squad provides an historic subplot. Should Lynagh take to the field, he and his father, Michael Lynagh – himself a famous Wallabies fly-half who played in the iconic 1989 Lions series – will become the first father-son duo to face the British and Irish Lions in Test rugby, a notable landmark in the sport’s storied history.
Meanwhile, there is significant movement among the Wales camp, with Reuben Morgan-Williams capturing attention as he prepares for his international debut against Japan in Kobe. Interim head coach Matt Sherratt described the Ospreys scrum-half as “a brave option,” highlighting Morgan-Williams’ attacking instincts and ability to spot gaps, a trait honed from years of strong club performances. Morgan-Williams is one of a clutch of uncapped players hoping to push Wales over the line as they seek to break a long-standing losing run.
Wales’ bench also features emerging talents such as Dragons prop and Ospreys team-mate Keelan Giles, providing fresh impetus as the side searches for a first victory after a challenging 18-match spell. Sherratt’s willingness to put faith in less experienced players is a calculated gamble, but one he hopes will pay dividends at this crucial moment.
Turning to British and Irish Lions affairs, influential England player Owen Farrell is set for a return after an injury-enforced absence and a mixed season with Racing 92 due to groin issues. Farrell will take his place on the bench for the Lions’ final warm-up in Adelaide, with his leadership and pedigree seen as invaluable assets ahead of the Tests against Australia. Fellow England and Saracens player Ben Earl spoke highly of Farrell’s enduring qualities, noting his professionalism and resilience, insisting that Farrell remains “one of the best” players he has played alongside.
Among other names to watch, young Henry Pollock, just 20 years old, has a final shot at securing a Test role after catching the eye with his dynamic running and defensive nous during a convincing win over the Brumbies. Earl himself praised Pollock’s extraordinary talent, predicting a bright future ahead for the youngster.
Elsewhere, England head coach Steve Borthwick announced that centre Luke Northmore will make his debut start against Argentina in the second of two Test matches. Northmore, replacing the injured Henry Slade, becomes the only change to England’s starting XV following their 35-12 triumph in the opener. The bench remains unchanged as England look for back-to-back victories at Estadio San Juan del Bicentenario before heading to face the USA in Washington.
Borthwick emphasised the intensity of England’s preparations for the fixture, describing it as a stern test and underlining the importance of continued improvement at this international level. Fans will no doubt be watching closely as a new wave of talent emerges, with established stars aiming to maintain their dominance as the international rugby calendar enters a pivotal summer phase.
With so many storylines unfolding, from veterans returning to the limelight to young players grasping opportunity, these selections promise intrigue and entertainment as the British and Irish Lions series, as well as England’s latest overseas campaign, come into sharp focus.