British and Irish Lions head coach Andy Farrell has insisted that selection for the second Test against Australia remains open, with Wales captain Jac Morgan among those hoping to force his way into the side. Morgan will start in the back-row against the First Nations and Pasifika XV on Tuesday night at Marvel Stadium, having missed out on the first Test victory in Brisbane.
Farrell acknowledged that the midweek fixture offers a crucial opportunity for players to stake their claim. “This fixture gives players another opportunity to put their hand up for selection for the final two Tests,” he said. “The coaches’ minds are open when it comes to selection, they have to be with so many players performing and pushing for places.”
Meanwhile, Tadhg Beirne has revealed that Farrell delivered a pointed message to senior players before the first Test, placing them under pressure to deliver. Beirne responded with a commanding performance in the 27-19 win, but admitted his place had been under threat from Ollie Chessum. “There are some things you can’t shy away from,” said Beirne. “A lot of people were calling for my head. I know my performances hadn’t been up to my standards.”
Beirne, 33, acknowledged that this tour may be his last chance to shine for the Lions. “I’m 33 now. I’m not going to be on another Lions tour, let’s be realistic, so these are special moments,” he said. He also praised Tom Curry, whose selection had been questioned but who produced a relentless display in the first Test.
Elsewhere, former Lions coach Sir Clive Woodward has faced criticism after claiming the Wallabies have a “losing mentality”. Writing in his Daily Mail column, Woodward criticised Australia captain Harry Wilson for kicking the ball dead at the end of the first Test rather than attempting to score. Many on social media labelled Woodward’s comments as misguided.
