**Jamie Roberts Offers Encouragement to Omitted Welsh Players as Lions Squad Announced**
British and Irish Lions legend Jamie Roberts has shared words of support and insight for Welsh rugby stars who have missed out on selection for this year’s much-anticipated Lions tour of Australia. The former Wales international, himself a veteran of two Lions tours, reflected on the significance of the squad announcement and the emotions it stirs among players left on the fringes.
On Thursday, Lions head coach Andy Farrell unveiled his 38-player squad, marking the beginning of preparations for the tour Down Under. The selection, however, has drawn attention for its notably sparse Welsh representation. Only two Welshmen – flanker Jac Morgan and scrum-half Tomos Williams – were included, making for the slimmest Welsh presence in a Lions touring side since the 1930s.
For many Welsh rugby fans, the announcement was a bitter pill to swallow. Names such as Blair Murray, Dewi Lake, Taulupe Faletau and Dafydd Jenkins had been cited as potential candidates prior to the reveal. Despite strong form and past heroics, most were omitted, raising inevitable debates over the criteria and balance considered by the selectors.
Speaking at the official squad launch in London, Jamie Roberts sought to inject a sense of perspective and reassurance to those missing out. “History will tell us that players get injured,” Roberts remarked, emphasising that the composition of any Lions squad remains fluid until the tour concludes. He added, “If not in the next month, then over the course of the tour. There will be players flying out. It’s hard to name the names that have missed out. There’s been a lot of chat around second rows and back rows, players have to miss out.”
Roberts, whose own rugby career enjoyed many highs wearing the famous red jersey of the Lions, stressed that competition for places is inevitable at this elite level. “You cannot squeeze 50 or 60 top international players into 38,” he stated. According to Roberts, the exclusivity of selection is what preserves the Lions’ prestige, while also acknowledging the heartbreak for those overlooked.
The former centre also highlighted the possibility of omitted players still being called upon. “Stay fit, boys, keep your phones on, you never know what might happen!” he encouraged. Injuries and shifting squad needs often throw up opportunities for replacements, making readiness essential.
While Roberts expressed pride in the two Welsh players who made the cut, he didn’t shy away from discussing those who narrowly missed out. He referenced Taulupe Faletau, an experienced Lion, as someone who could still feature if required, especially should injuries occur among the selected back-rowers. Dewi Lake and Dafydd Jenkins were also singled out as strong contenders to receive a late call, should circumstances change.
Turning to the notable omission of Owen Farrell, the England star and previous Lions captain, Roberts described him as a “Test match animal” and refused to rule out his involvement before the end of the tour. “Don’t be surprised if he’s there come the end of the tour,” Roberts remarked. Given Farrell’s wealth of experience and proven leadership, Roberts speculated that he could readily be summoned if the need arises during the Test series. “At the end of the Test series if there are some big games to be won or lost, it’s hard to look past him,” he said.
Despite disappointment for many top Welsh players, Roberts was keen to praise Farrell’s chosen squad for its depth and quality. He reminded fans and players alike that the Lions remain the pinnacle of a rugby career, and even the process of missing out can serve as motivation for future campaigns.
As the build-up to the tour continues, the rugby world will be watching closely for any fitness updates or late changes. With tradition dictating that injuries are inevitable across such a demanding schedule, opportunities may yet arise for those currently outside the frame. In the meantime, Jamie Roberts’ message is clear: stay ready, remain positive, and take pride in both individual and collective achievements.