**Wales’ British & Irish Lions Prospects Up in the Air Amid Tough Selection Process, Says Nigel Owens**
As the domestic rugby season winds down, focus now shifts sharply towards this summer’s highly anticipated British & Irish Lions tour of Australia. With head coach Andy Farrell just days away from unveiling his squad, there is growing speculation about how many Welsh players will secure a spot on the plane. Legendary former referee Nigel Owens has weighed in on the selection debate, offering both insight and a dose of realism for Welsh fans.
The last Lions tour failed to meet expectations for many, falling flat partly due to defeat on the pitch but also because Covid-19 restrictions kept the usually raucous crowd away. Supporters, who are widely recognised as the heartbeat of the Lions experience, were sorely missed. Welsh fans, in particular, have a long tradition of travelling in huge numbers and lending their voices to the British & Irish cause.
Over the years, some of the most successful and memorable Lions tours have included a strong Welsh flavour, with the likes of Jamie Roberts, Sam Warburton, George North, Leigh Halfpenny, and Jonathan Davies consistently rising to the challenge. The rich history of Welsh involvement, dating back to the fabled tours of the 1970s, underscores how important this opportunity is for players from the principality.
However, Owens notes that this year could bring a marked shift. “We’re all braced for there to be very few Wales players within Farrell’s final squad,” he writes. The current run of form for the Wales national team has not been favourable, resulting in reduced expectations. While it is disappointing for supporters to anticipate limited Welsh representation, many acknowledge it is a fair reflection of the team’s recent performances.
Despite this, Owens remains optimistic that at least a handful of Welsh players have done enough to merit selection. Jac Morgan stands out, in particular, as a leading contender. Owens describes Morgan as a “Lion, as far as I’m concerned,” highlighting his standout performances in the back row. Despite fierce competition for back row places, Owens believes Morgan’s consistency makes him almost indispensable.
Two more names on Owens’ shortlist are Tomos Williams and Dewi Lake. The former, Capped for both Gloucester and Wales, looked a certainty for selection following impressive displays in the autumn internationals. Yet, a dip in Six Nations form may count against him when the final reckoning comes. Dewi Lake, meanwhile, has struggled with injury but still managed to impress with the Ospreys. Fitness and recent game time will be key factors in whether he makes Farrell’s squad.
Owens goes on to mention Taulupe Faletau and Dafydd Jenkins as “outside chances.” Faletau, a stalwart with three previous Lions tours to his name, has only recently returned from an extended injury lay-off and, while glimpses of his world-class abilities have resurfaced, it remains uncertain if that will suffice for selection. Jenkins likewise faces stiff competition in a crowded field.
The former referee also points to the broader competitive landscape, with England and Ireland providing a wealth of options for the selectors. “Many expect this year’s tour to be dominated by Irish internationals,” Owens says, given their status as the form team in the northern hemisphere. England too, under Steve Borthwick, boast several individuals likely to stake their claim, and a talented Scottish back-line is also likely to feature, with Blair Kinghorn among those tipped for inclusion.
With these dynamics at play, Thursday’s squad announcement is set to be one of the most closely watched in recent memory. “It will be really interesting to see what Farrell decides,” Owens writes, acknowledging both the challenge and excitement of Lions selection. He also reflects fondly on his own involvement as a referee, highlighting the unique honour and the indelible memories that come from being part of such a storied rugby tradition.
For all the debate about whether the Lions retains its prestige, Owens is unequivocal. “For players, supporters and the rugby public, it’s certainly not lost its lustre,” he says. To be chosen as a Lion remains a crowning achievement and an enduring ambition for any British or Irish rugby player, not least those aspiring to represent Wales on the world stage. Fans across the country will be hoping their heroes are included when the squad is finally revealed and history — with its many unforgettable moments — gets another thrilling chapter Down Under.