**Maro Itoje Welcomes Jac Morgan as Last Arrival at British and Irish Lions Camp**
After a whirlwind 24 hours, Ospreys captain Jac Morgan made his much-anticipated arrival at the British and Irish Lions’ first camp – the final member of Andy Farrell’s squad to join. The Welsh flanker touched down in south-west London on Sunday evening, having barely a moment’s rest following a demanding finale to his United Rugby Championship season in South Africa.
Morgan’s recent schedule has been nothing short of relentless. On Saturday, he led the Ospreys in their dramatic 29-28 loss to the Lions in Johannesburg, marking his 50th cap for his region just days prior in Durban. His unwavering commitment saw him go from the field in South Africa to a hotel lobby in Richmond, London, in a matter of hours – a testament both to his professionalism and the transnational aspect of modern rugby life.
When he arrived at the Richmond hotel, the squad’s appointed base for a two-day induction, Morgan was greeted with open arms by none other than Lions captain Maro Itoje. The encounter, captured on social media and warmly received by fans, showcased Itoje’s leadership and camaraderie. The England lock was filmed warmly hugging Morgan, offering his congratulations and checking in on his journey and recent match.
“What’s happening, Jac?” Itoje said as Morgan appeared from his taxi, laden with bags and still visibly weary from his travels. He continued, “So, you played yesterday?” highlighting the sheer effort the Welshman had put in simply to be present. Morgan replied, “Yeah, we got back last night from Johannesburg. It was the last game of the season,” revealing the tight turnaround that left little time for rest or recovery.
Itoje’s response, “It’s good to have you,” underscored the welcoming spirit permeating the squad’s get-together. Morgan, for his part, echoed a readiness to embrace the challenge ahead, indicating that he was “looking forward to it” – a sentiment no doubt shared by the rest of the squad as they gathered for the first time.
This initial two-day camp in Richmond was more than just a meet-and-greet. The Lions, drawn from across England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, utilised the time not only to build team bonds but also to undertake a range of administrative tasks. Activities included official squad photos and even suit fittings for the players, with those selected experiencing both a sense of ceremony and a reminder of the unique traditions attached to Lions tours.
For Morgan, his late arrival meant catching up with team-mates – at that point, Tomos Williams had been the only other Welshman present. Yet, the swift formation of friendships and team cohesion is recognised as a central challenge and hallmark of any Lions series, particularly as the side prepares to face some of the world’s strongest teams.
The Lions’ summer fixtures promise to be a high-profile test for Farrell’s charges. Proceedings begin with a showdown against Argentina at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on 20 June, marking the squad’s first outing together. Beyond this, the team will make their way to Australia for a series of warm-up matches, providing the foundation for the headline Test series against the Wallabies in July.
Morgan’s arrival, marked by physical fatigue but clear enthusiasm, has already offered fans a glimpse into the squad’s atmosphere. With the likes of Itoje setting the tone, this Lions squad appears intent on forging unity early, off the field as much as on it.
As preparations now move apace, much speculation will surround how quickly the players can gel and which combinations will emerge strongest ahead of the pivotal Brisbane Test on 19 July. For now, the focus remains on fostering partnerships and establishing a squad identity that transcends national borders – just as the British and Irish Lions have always strived to do.
Fans across the Isles will be watching closely, eager not only for on-pitch heroics but also for stories such as Morgan’s – tales of dedication, sportsmanship and team spirit that are the lifeblood of the Lions legacy.