Andy Farrell is set to shake things up ahead of the series-deciding Third Test against Australia, with a number of fringe players in line for a shot at Lions glory.
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The British & Irish Lions boss will name his matchday 23 early Thursday morning (UK & Ireland time), and with key players returning from injury — and others nursing fresh knocks — changes are firmly on the cards following the nail-biting 29-26 win in Melbourne.
One man who won’t feature in Sydney is Garry Ringrose. The Lions have confirmed the Ireland centre is out of the tour finale after failing to recover from concussion.
Having already missed the first two Tests with separate head injuries, Ringrose has now entered a fresh 12-day return-to-play protocol, as per World Rugby guidelines.
The Times is reporting that McCarthy and Blair Kinghorn could both come into the starting XV, with Ben Earl part of a 6-2 bench split.
PREDICTED LIONS TEAM
15. Hugo Keenan
14. Mack Hansen
13. Huw Jones
12. Sione Tuipulotu
11. Blair Kinghorn
10. Finn Russell
9. Jamison Gibson-Park
1. Ellis Genge
2. Dan Sheehan
3. Tadhg Furlong
4. Maro Itoje
5. Tadhg Beirne
6. Jac Morgan
7. Josh van der Flier
8. Jack Conan
REPLACEMENTS: Rónan Kellheher, Andrew Porter, Will Stuart, Ollie Chessum, Ben Earl, Alex Mitchell, Owen Farrell, Tommy Freeman.
Andy Farrell is expected to name his Lions team around 7:30am [UK time] on Thursday.
Updated 2027 Rugby World Cup draw, England get easy group
he tournament’s structure and timing now better reflect current global rankings, thanks to a late pool draw in December this year made possible by reforms in 2022.
Here’s a breakdown of the predicted groups and team bios for the RWC 2027:
🏆 Group A
South Africa 🇿🇦
The reigning world champions and four-time RWC winners, the Springboks bring a powerhouse blend of physicality, tactical brilliance, and iconic leadership.
Argentina 🇦🇷
Los Pumas continue to rise as a Tier 1 nation, combining flair and fearlessness. Semifinalists in 2007 and 2015, they’re known for big-game upsets.
Samoa 🇼🇸
With deep roots in rugby tradition, Samoa’s raw physicality and natural flair make them one of the most dangerous Tier 2 teams in the game.
Tonga 🇹🇴
The ‘Ikale Tahi’ bring bone-crunching tackles and island pride. With several stars playing abroad, Tonga is always capable of springing a surprise.
🌍 Group B
New Zealand 🇳🇿
The legendary All Blacks need no introduction—three-time world champions with a relentless pursuit of perfection and a legacy of innovation.
Scotland 🏴
A Six Nations stalwart, Scotland blends tactical kicking and dynamic playmakers, looking to go beyond the quarterfinals for the first time since 1991.
Japan 🇯🇵
The Brave Blossoms became global darlings in 2019 with a stunning quarterfinal run. Expect lightning-quick rucks and passionate homegrown talent.
Chile 🇨🇱
One of the emerging forces from South America, Chile made its first RWC appearance in 2023. Physical, proud, and improving fast.
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