Ireland star Dan Sheehan has opened up on the unique dynamic of the British & Irish Lions squad – revealing that some of his team-mates were once players he “despised”.
Speaking to Sky Sports from Australia, the 26-year-old hooker lifted the lid on how old rivalries have quickly turned into close friendships as the squad gels ahead of their opening match against the Western Force.
“It is interesting. You go from watching these guys, preparing for them, despising them in some ways and all of a sudden you meet them and they are great blokes,” Sheehan told Sky Sports.
“That is just rugby and you have got to turn it on.
“We have all realised pretty quickly we are all good fellas and enjoy each other’s company and we have enjoyed the last few weeks of getting to know each other.
“It is a big part of what we have tried to focus on is buying into our connection as a group and making sure it is tight and getting to know each other off the field as well as on it.”
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The candid confession has sent fans into speculation mode – trying to guess who exactly Sheehan had in mind when talking about players he once couldn’t stand.
One fan on Facebook claimed:
“Clearly it was Schoeman, Schoeman threw Sheehan over a notice board at the World Cup”
Another insisted:
“No, it was Ellis Genge”
While a third went rogue with:
“It was Pollock”
Pressed on whether any of the England, Scotland or Wales players were on his former “most disliked” list, Sheehan dodged the question – but did eventually name one man who’s changed his mind.
“I am not going to give names. You prepare for them and see them as talismans for their own country and you are probably glad to be on their side now and sharing the same shirt,” he said.
“We need to make sure we bring all that energy we used to have against each other and bring it out on Saturday against Western Force.
“It is something that we just need to embrace and have a laugh about if there has been anything over the last few years and use to our advantage.”
And yes – he did finally admit to being impressed by England enforcer Ellis Genge.
“He [Genge] is a great fella – he is real, he is honest. I love the energy he brings to the squad and training is unbelievable.”
“Henry Pollock starts” – Our predicted Lions XV for the All Blacks tour in 2029
han the understrength Wallabies outfit Farrell has dispatched this year. Whoever takes the reins as head coach will be under intense pressure to get selections right.
With that in mind, here’s our early prediction for the 2029 Lions Test XV.
15. Blair Kinghorn
Despite missing most of the 2025 tour through injury and Top 14 commitments, Kinghorn remains one of the most complete fullbacks available to the Lions. On form, he’s the best in the Home Nations, offering versatility and composure at the back.
At 28, he’ll be in excellent physical shape by 2029. Starting the final Test this weekend provides valuable experience. While Sale’s Joe Carpenter is a rising threat, Kinghorn’s proven Test-level pedigree keeps him ahead.
14. Tommy Freeman
Freeman was a nailed-on starter throughout the 2025 series — and for good reason. At 24, he’s still developing but already plays like a seasoned international. His size, power, and try-scoring instinct make him a nightmare for defenders.
By 2029, he’ll be at his peak and could be one of the standout figures in the Lions backline.
13. Ollie Lawrence
Lawrence missed the 2025 tour through injury but would have almost certainly travelled — and challenged for a starting spot. With Huw Jones likely past his best at 35 in 2029, Lawrence (who’ll be 29) has a golden opportunity to claim the 13 jersey.
If he regains his top form, he’ll be tough to leave out.
12. Sione Tuipulotu
Tuipulotu impressed during the 2025 season and was arguably unlucky to be benched in favour of Bundee Aki, despite being in better form. By 2029, he’ll be 32 and bring a wealth of experience.
His blend of physicality and skill, along with a calm head, will be vital against the All Blacks.
11. Mack Hansen
Injury kept Hansen out of the 2025 series, but if fit, he’ll be 31 in 2029 and still a major attacking threat. His flair, game intelligence, and unpredictability make him a fan favourite.
If Andy Farrell isn’t retained as coach, Hansen could be overlooked for a winger from another nation — but on ability alone, he’s hard to ignore.
10. Fin Smith
Smith is the standout young fly-half in English rugby and showed real quality during the 2025 series, even if opportunities were limited. His decision-making, game management and kicking are already top-tier.
By 2029, he could be the best No.10 available. Sam Prendergast might challenge him, but Smith currently looks the more complete package.
9. Alex Mitchell
Mitchell is in his prime at 28 and impressed during the 2025 tour. With few younger No.9s putting their hands up, he’s in a strong position to retain the jersey.
If his partnership with Fin Smith continues at Northampton Saints, that club connection could be a big plus for the Lions in 2029.
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