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“It’s been an incredible journey” – Beirne
The British and Irish Lions secured a 2-1 series victory over Australia, marking their first Test series win since 2013.
While the tour may not be remembered as an all-time classic, it provided ample controversy, significant moments, and a memorable second Test.
Across nine tour matches, the Lions recorded eight wins, with a final-game loss preventing Andy Farrell’s squad from achieving the first series whitewash by a touring side since 1927.
Our team on the ground in Australia – Chris Jones, Tom English, Lauren Jenkins, and Nigel Ringland – analyze the tour and present their end-of-tour awards on the latest Rugby Union Weekly episode.
NR: “Dan Sheehan has solidified his reputation as potentially the best hooker in the world.
“He set the standard from his first game and even captained the side. If he maintains his trajectory with Leinster and Ireland, he could be a potential captain in 2029. He was significantly ahead of his competition at hooker.”
TE: “Tadhg Beirne played every minute of the Test series and was hugely influential from the outset. Tom Curry’s tackle on James Slipper led to Beirne securing the turnover.
“I admire players who overcome doubts and excel. He epitomized greatness on this tour.”
CJ: “My pick is Tadhg Beirne.”
LJ: “Maro Itoje deserves recognition for his durability and leadership. The third Test was the first time he didn’t complete a Test match since 2022 against Australia.
“It’s not beyond the realm of possibility that he’ll feature again in four years, adding to his nine Lions Tests.”
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TE: “The atmosphere at the MCG with 90,000 people, the dramatic comeback, and the controversy surrounding the clearout, all contributed to memorable moments that we’ll be discussing on our next visit to Australia.
“Owen Farrell’s call-up also injected excitement into the tour when the Lions were comfortably beating everyone and the matches were becoming predictable.
“His arrival was a major talking point, as he tends to generate strong opinions.”
LJ: “The two tries scored within four minutes before halftime in Melbourne were pivotal, shifting the momentum from 23-5 to 23-17. While it may not be immediately apparent, it was a crucial turning point.”
CJ: “Tom Curry’s dominant tackle on James Slipper was a statement moment, particularly after discussions about his selection for the first Test.”
NR: “The final play of the game in Melbourne, coupled with the preceding controversy and the announcement of no foul play, was remarkable.
“The execution was flawless, with the players demonstrating exceptional composure and awareness of their positions.”
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LJ: “The First Nations and Pasifika XV showcased the performance of the series, delivering the game that many were anticipating. They nearly clinched it at the end, leaving me with a sense of optimism.”
CJ: “The Wallabies’ performance in the third Test, amid concerns about the state of Australian rugby and pressure from Wallaby legends to avoid a 3-0 defeat, was commendable.”
TE: “The first half of Test one stood out.”
NR: “I’m going to combine the first half of the first Test and the second half of the second Test.
“However, those final minutes in Melbourne are what we’ll remember most.”
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TE: “Tom Curry’s performance in the first Test and Tadhg Beirne’s contributions in the first and third Tests are hard to overlook.”
LJ: “Waratahs flanker Charlie Gamble impressed. He was man of the match in the loss for the First Nations Pasifika XV and consistently performed well for the Waratahs.”
CJ: “Rob Valetini’s 40 minutes in Melbourne and Taniela Tupou’s performance in the third Test were noteworthy. However, my player of the tour from an Australian perspective is Will Skelton. Australia’s point difference was 14 points higher with him on the field, highlighting his impact.”
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CJ: “Tom Wright’s try in Melbourne was a highlight. Joseph Suaalii’s vision created the opportunity, justifying the investment made to recruit him from the NRL.
“The try ignited the stadium and created a special sporting moment.”
TE: “Wright’s try electrified the stadium, solidifying Suaalii’s reputation.”
LJ: “Finn Russell’s exceptional pass to Sione Tuipulotu in the first Test led to the first Test try scored by a Scot since Alan Tait in 1997.”
Jac Morgan, who featured in the second and third Tests, was the only Wales player in the Lions squad.
LJ: “Jac Morgan enhanced his reputation on the tour. Performing at the highest level on a Lions tour is not always guaranteed, even for talented players. As the sole Welshman, he demonstrated his ability on the biggest stage.
“Without the support of a Welsh coach or the familiarity of his Leinster or Ireland teammates, his success is even more impressive. This experience will undoubtedly benefit him, potentially encouraging him to explore different environments.
“While he may have been content playing domestically, this tour could broaden his horizons and ambitions.”
TE: “He is a class act. Jac Morgan’s emergence as a Lions cult figure is reminiscent of Brian O’Driscoll’s impact in 2001.
“Morgan gained widespread support, regardless of background, due to his captivating performances.
“He was a standout tourist and played exceptionally well.”
Four Australia players were selected for the combined starting XV.
This includes Rob Valetini, who played only 40 minutes in the Test series, and Will Skelton, who missed the first Test.
Dylan Pietsch, despite not being selected for the first two Tests, impressed in Sydney and earned a spot on the wing.
Combined starting XV: Keenan; Jorgensen, Jones, Tuipulotu, Pietsch; Russell, Gibson-Park; Genge, Sheehan, Furlong, Itoje, Skelton, Beirne, Curry, Valetini.
Australia players in bold
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