The announcement of the British & Irish Lions squad always stirs debate, and this year is no different. While some inclusions were widely expected, a number of high-profile names have been left out – raising eyebrows across the rugby world. But with injuries, form fluctuations, and mid-tour call-ups historically common, the door is far from closed. Here are the biggest omissions – and how they might still earn their ticket.
Jack Willis, Back Row, England
Willis has not featured for England since September 2023, primarily due to the RFU’s policy of not selecting overseas-based players. This absence from international rugby may have influenced the Lions selectors, who often prioritise recent test experience.Furthermore, the back-row positions are highly competitive, with players like Ben Earl, Tom Curry, and Josh van der Flier showcasing strong form. Despite Willis’s prowess, the selectors might have favored those with more recent international exposure. Willis’s involvement with Toulouse in the Top 14 could have posed scheduling conflicts with the Lions’ preparations. Some analysts suggest that his club commitments may have influenced the decision to exclude him. Despite his omission, Willis is reportedly on the standby list for the tour. Given the physical demands of the game and potential injuries, there’s a possibility he could be called up later.
In summary, while Jack Willis’s exclusion is surprising to many, factors such as limited recent international play, fierce competition, and logistical considerations likely influenced the decision. Nonetheless, his standby status keeps the door open for potential inclusion should circumstances change.
Darcy Graham, Winger, Scotland
Darcy Graham’s omission from the 2025 British & Irish Lions squad in favour of Elliot Daly and Mack Hansen raises legitimate questions about selection priorities. Graham brings a level of explosiveness, finishing ability, and broken-field running that is arguably unmatched in the home nations.
Elliot Daly offers versatility and a big boot, but he hasn’t consistently stood out at either wing or centre in recent seasons. This will be Dalys Third tour. In 2021 he fought his way into every test 23 on the left wing and in the centre against the Springboks, matching his opposition for pace and sending penalties sailing through the sticks from beyond 50 metres. This was 4 years ago. His attributes that made him one of the most versatile players in world rugby have certainly diminished in recent years. However, Graham, meanwhile, has been devastatingly effective when fit — racking up tries and beating defenders with ease. If the Lions wanted X-factor from the back three, Graham fits the bill better than Daly.
Mack Hansen is undoubtedly a classy player, but his form has been inconsistent, particularly in the latter stages of the Six Nations and with Connacht. Graham arguably offers more direct threat and better finishing instincts, while still being solid under the high ball.
My final argument for Graham is this. Looking back over previous Lions tours we have seen moments of individual brilliance which have made the difference in Lions tests. George North in 2013, Brian O’Driscol in 2001 and Jason Robinson also in 2001. There are few players in the Northern Hemisphere that can create magic. I firmly believe that Darcy Graham is one of them. I’m not sure you can say the same about Elliot Daly and Mack Hansen in 2025.
Ben White, Scrum Half, Scotland
Consistently reliable at scrum-half and integral to Scotland’s offensive strategy in recent seasons, White has established himself as a key player under Gregor Townsend. With his dependable kicking and precise distribution, he has been subtly regarded by numerous observers as a formidable candidate for the Lions. Tomos Williams is undoubtedly a high calibre player in a sub par Wales side and a deserved inclusion in the squad. However, if injuries were to arise I think we know who will be next to get the converted phone call.
Sam Prendergast, Fly Half, Ireland
Prendergast’s defensive weaknesses were prominently highlighted in the Champions Cup semi-final against Northampton Saints, where he failed to successfully complete five out of eleven tackle attempts, leading to a tackle completion rate of 55%. This statistic was criticised by former Ireland international Shane Horgan, who pointed out that it represents a considerable issue.
In the same Champions Cup semi-final, Northampton’s Fin Smith delivered a composed performance, effectively managing the game and showcasing defensive solidity. Smith’s ability to handle pressure and maintain defensive discipline may have bolstered his case for selection over Prendergast.
These problems were not unique. In the 2025 Six Nations, Prendergast failed to make 15 tackles in Ireland’s initial three matches, resulting in an average of five missed tackles per game. Consequently, he became the player with the highest number of missed tackles in the tournament up to that moment. These statistics highlight a recurring issue of defensive weakness that probably affected the Lions selectors’ choices.
Prendergast is young. I believe Leinster and Ireland have held him back. Both these sides play with the same game plan and Predergast has been moulded to execute this effectively. However, when this game plan isn’t working most notably in the Champions Cup semi final, Prendergast doesn’t seem to have the ability to read and adapt to the scenario that is unfolding.
However, if we see Andy Farrell using the game plan that has worked for Ireland for many years. I see no reason to not include Prendergast if an injury arises.
