**Jac Morgan Included as British and Irish Lions Reveal Squad for Second Wallabies Test**
In a significant development for Welsh rugby, Jac Morgan has earned his spot on the British and Irish Lions bench for the upcoming second Test against Australia at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. The Ospreys flanker, who captains Wales, had been left out of the matchday squad for the opening Test in Brisbane—a historic omission, as it was the first time a Welshman had not featured in a Lions Test against Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa since the 19th century.
Morgan’s return follows an impressive shift during the midweek fixture against the First Nations and Pasifika XV, where he played 50 minutes and caught the selectors’ eyes. Andy Farrell, the Lions’ head coach, has opted to bring Morgan into the replacements at the expense of England’s Ben Curry, underlining the faith in Morgan’s versatility and work rate in the back row. This selection marks a particularly proud moment for Welsh supporters, keen to see their captain stamping his authority at the highest level.
Elsewhere in the squad, the most notable change comes in the midfield. Melbourne-born Scotland centre Sione Tuipulotu misses out on a place entirely, despite being in line to feature in his hometown. Instead, Ireland’s Bundee Aki pairs with Scotland’s Huw Jones, suggesting a preference for Aki’s physicality and experience in high-stakes encounters. Tuipulotu’s exclusion will no doubt be a disappointment for the local crowd who might have anticipated a homecoming performance.
Owen Farrell, the son of head coach Andy Farrell and an experienced former England captain, has been retained on the bench following his outing during Tuesday’s midweek match. If called upon, it will be Farrell’s first Test appearance since the 2023 World Cup bronze medal match, adding a layer of intrigue to the Lions’ tactical options for the second Test.
Despite some inconsistent showings from James Lowe and Tommy Freeman on the wings during the Brisbane win, the Lions have opted for stability in the backline, resisting the urge to make sweeping changes. Scotland’s Blair Kinghorn, having proven his fitness in the midweek run-out, finds himself amongst the replacements rather than the starting XV.
Among the forwards, a handful of switches have been made due to injury and form. England’s Ollie Chessum replaces Joe McCarthy, who is sidelined, while Ireland’s Andrew Porter is brought in at loosehead prop. This cements an all-Leinster front row alongside Dan Sheehan and Tadhg Furlong, reflecting the heavy Irish influence running through the starting side, with seven of twelve forwards named hailing from Leinster alone. James Ryan comes in as cover amongst the substitutes, filling the void left by McCarthy.
Lions boss Andy Farrell is under no illusions about the challenge awaiting his side in Melbourne. “We have put ourselves in a good position after the First Test, but we know there will be a massive reaction from this Wallaby team,” Farrell said, highlighting both the threat posed by the Australians and the necessity for the Lions to raise their standards from last week. He also emphasised the significance of playing in front of a capacity crowd at one of world sport’s most storied venues, calling it a unique aspect of Lions tours.
A record crowd approaching 100,000 is expected at the MCG, with the stage set for a memorable Test match. Supporters of the touring side are renowned for creating an electric atmosphere, and Farrell is banking on their energy to help drive the Lions as they seek to secure the series.
The Lions’ starting XV for the Melbourne showdown: Hugo Keenan; Tommy Freeman, Huw Jones, Bundee Aki, James Lowe; Finn Russell, Jamison Gibson-Park; Andrew Porter, Dan Sheehan, Tadhg Furlong, Maro Itoje (captain), Ollie Chessum, Tadhg Beirne, Tom Curry, Jack Conan. The replacements are Ronan Kelleher, Ellis Genge, Will Stuart, James Ryan, Jac Morgan, Alex Mitchell, Owen Farrell, and Blair Kinghorn.
As anticipation builds ahead of this clash between northern and southern hemisphere heavyweights, all eyes will be on Morgan and his fellow Lions as they aim to seize the opportunity in Melbourne and potentially clinch a series win with a game to spare. The second Test promises high drama and passionate rugby, with selection debate only heightening expectations for Saturday’s spectacle.