**Jac Morgan Given Final Opportunity to Secure Test Shirt as Lions Name Team for AUNZ Invitational Clash**
In a pivotal moment ahead of the eagerly anticipated British & Irish Lions Test series, Welsh flanker Jac Morgan has been handed the opportunity to impress selectors one final time. The Lions’ latest squad, announced ahead of their encounter with the AUNZ Invitational XV in Adelaide, sees Morgan named in the starting XV—a clear signal that the door remains open for him to stake a claim for starting honours in the first Test against the Wallabies.
Morgan, 25, has consistently caught the eye as the most impressive specialist openside on tour thus far, despite being a notable omission from the team that bested the Brumbies earlier this week. That side, selected by head coach Andy Farrell, closely resembled what many observers believe will become the Lions’ starting lineup in Brisbane next Saturday.
Facing robust competition from the likes of England’s Tom Curry, Ireland’s Josh van der Flier, and rising England talent Henry Pollock, Morgan is under pressure to deliver a standout performance. Saturday’s match therefore presents a crucial platform for him to underline his credentials and force his way into the Test selection conversation.
Joining Morgan in a dynamic back row are Pollock, operating on the blindside, and England’s Ben Earl, bringing their own blend of power and agility. The forward pack maintains a distinctively Irish influence in the second row, with Tadhg Beirne and James Ryan forming a tried-and-tested partnership, while the front row is completed by Pierre Schoeman, Luke Cowan-Dickie, and Will Stuart.
Behind the scrum, the Lions have opted for Ben White at scrum-half partnering fly-half Fin Smith, with the Scottish duo Sione Tuipulotu and Huw Jones occupying the midfield positions. The back three sees Hugo Keenan at full-back, supported by wingers Mack Hansen and Duhan van der Merwe, giving the side both pace and finishing prowess.
Of particular note is the inclusion of England’s Owen Farrell among the replacements. The experienced fly-half is set to make his first appearance of the tour, bringing leadership and tactical nous that could prove decisive both in this fixture and moving forward in the series.
Commenting on the current state of preparations, head coach Andy Farrell remarked, “We find ourselves in an excellent position just over a week from the first Test. The squad has another golden chance to gel and make a strong collective statement ahead of the mouth-watering contests against Australia.” Farrell also acknowledged the challenge posed by Les Kiss’ experienced Invitational XV, saying, “Les has assembled a group rich in international experience. We expect them to offer stern opposition, both physically and tactically.”
With the Lions sharpening up for the series, every performance is under scrutiny, not least from fans and pundits keen for insight into who will feature in the crucial Test matches. For Morgan, one more dynamic showing may be enough to tip the balance in his favour, as Farrell and his coaching team weigh the delicate decisions looming in the days ahead.
Elsewhere among the replacements, there’s a blend of youth and experience: Ireland’s Ronan Kelleher, Andrew Porter, and Finlay Bealham provide front-row cover, alongside Scott Cummings and van der Flier for the forwards. The backs are covered by Alex Mitchell, Marcus Smith, and the aforementioned Farrell, ensuring depth right across the bench.
While speculation continues about the make-up of the XV who will run out for the first Test in Brisbane, all eyes will be on Morgan and his fellow hopefuls as they seek to turn opportunity into selection. The coming contest in Adelaide, then, is about far more than just preparation—it may well decide the pecking order for the rest of the series.
As the clock ticks down to the Test series opener, Morgan’s performance on Saturday could play a significant role in shaping the Lions’ fortunes for the remainder of their Australian adventure.