Is this the toughest Lions back row selection of all time?
With the upcoming British & Irish Lions tour approaching, the selection of the back row is expected to be one of the most contentious topics. This area has always been crucial in Test rugby, as the Lions’ flankers and number eight need to excel in breakdown skills, ball-carrying ability, defensive resilience, and versatility in various playing styles. Given the wealth of talent from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, the challenge for the Lions coaching staff extends beyond merely selecting the top players; it involves creating the ideal combination.
The Leading Contenders.
Ireland
Caelan Doris appears to be a strong candidate for selection due to his exceptional carrying ability, defensive work ethic, and handling skills, which classify him as a well-rounded modern number eight. Josh van der Flier, the World Player of the Year in 2022, brings an unwavering work rate, superb tackling technique, and a significant turnover threat, making him an almost ideal openside for Test matches. Additionally, Tadhg Bierne is a viable option for selection, given his expertise in lineouts, leadership qualities, and remarkable tenacity at the breakdown. Furthermore, Bierne’s versatile ability to play in the second row and back row make him a useful asset for a Lions side.
England
England’s recent restructuring has revealed several promising candidates. Ben Earl has surfaced as a dynamic and explosive ball carrier, showcasing athleticism comparable to the finest. His adaptability within the back row may prove to be extremely beneficial. Many said “he looked quiet”, during this last Six Nations but let me tell you his stats were among the best. Tom Curry, provided he returns to full fitness, is a tested Lions Test player, a flanker known for his all-around play, expertise in breakdown situations, leadership qualities, and formidable defensive skills. Chandler Cunningham-South is an emerging powerhouse who might break into the selection, although he could be considered more of a surprise inclusion. Courtney Lawes could make the tour for several strong reasons. The veteran has already been on two Lions tours (2017, 2021), bringing a wealth of experience. He’s a proven leader, having captained England, and his presence would be invaluable in a high-pressure environment.
Henry Pollock is another name that is being thrown in the ring. Pollock exhibits a level of play that suggests he is unaware of his status as a teenager, and this is advantageous. He approaches the game without hesitation, embraces physical confrontations, and already appears to be at home in senior Premiership rugby. Many argue that he is too young and the hype around the young man is recency bias, but his stats talk for themselves as Pollock is leading the Champions Cup by a landslide in turnovers won. You can’t argue with that. Not to mention possibly the best openside in world rugby currently, Jack Wills. Since relocating to Toulouse following the dissolution of Wasps, he has continued to excel—if anything, he has elevated his performance. Competing in the Top 14, known for its physicality and tactical complexity, has further refined his skills. He is now a regular starter and occasional captain on a world-class team, frequently surpassing the performance of French internationals. 2025 could be his moment. He’s entering his prime (he’ll be 28), experienced but still full of fire.
Scotland
Scotland’s forward pack is increasingly gaining recognition for its prowess. Rory Darge stands out as an exceptional openside flanker, demonstrating fearlessness at the breakdown and remarkable skill in securing possession. Meanwhile, Matt Fagerson contributes reliability, agility, and defensive fortitude, though he may need to enhance his carrying effectiveness to secure a position on the Lions squad. Lastly, despite previous challenges, such as the loss of his captaincy, Jamie Ritchie has shown remarkable resilience and outstanding performance, securing a place in the URC Team of the Season and being acknowledged as a possible surprise inclusion for the Lions squad.
Wales
Despite being in a period of transition, certain individuals in the Wales team are noteworthy. Jac Morgan, demonstrates natural leadership qualities along with a formidable defensive presence and a significant threat at the breakdown — he appears to be a player well-suited for Lions rugby. Meanwhile, Aaron Wainwright has experienced a resurgence, providing powerful ball-carrying abilities, athleticism, and options in the lineout. However once again, would be considered as a shock selection.
