Wallabies head coach Joe Schmidt has characterised the British and Irish Lions squad as “predictable and powerful,” expressing his concerns about the significant challenge ahead.
On Thursday, Lions coach Andy Farrell, who previously served as Schmidt’s assistant with Ireland, announced a 38-man squad under the captaincy of Maro Itoje, set to tour Australia from June to August.
As anticipated, Farrell has largely selected players from his Ireland squad, with 15 included alongside 13 from England, eight from Scotland, and two from Wales.
Fin Smith, Alex Mitchell, Henry Pollock and Tommy Freeman in their British and Irish Lions shirts. Getty
“I’d probably label them predictable yet powerful, with solid strength and depth,” Schmidt remarked on Stan Sport.
“They’ve added an extra 10 players as training cover, and there could be another two or three surprises when the official squad is disclosed—a very formidable line-up indeed.”
The Lions triumphed in the last series in Australia back in 2013 and are favoured to win again against a Wallabies team currently ranked eighth globally.
Joe Schmidt (right) with defence coach Andy Farrell during Ireland training. Getty
At present, Ireland sits in third place, while England is ranked sixth, Scotland seventh and Wales at twelfth.
“I feel anxious yet excited, and I can’t wait for the series to begin,” Schmidt commented.
“On June 28, the Lions arrive to compete against the Force, giving us our first opportunity to see them in action.”
Maro Itoje poses for a photo after being announced as captain by Andy Farrell. Getty
The Lions will first face Argentina in Dublin on June 21 (AEST) before heading to Australia.
“We’re looking forward to observing those two fixtures rather than just names on a page,” Schmidt stated.
“It’s the players taking the field that we wish to assess right away.”
Past Lions teams have often aimed to physically overpower the Wallabies, but Schmidt believes they will rely on their skills while in Australia.
“I anticipate they will attempt to play with a lot of pace, maintain multiple phases, and offer various options,” he predicted.
“They thrive on having options available across the pitch… They are adept at using both foot and hand, which will allow them to find space by passing through the hands or utilising kicks for a quick advantage.”
“This approach has always been central to the Irish strategy, and I suspect it will be the Lions’ game plan as well.”
Having experienced the camaraderie among Lions players during his time with Ireland and Leinster, Schmidt appreciates what wearing the Lions jersey represents.
“What always struck me was their excitement for one another,” he reflected.
“There were constant phone calls, snippets shared online, and conversations over WhatsApp. It was exhilarating to witness their enthusiasm for each other.”
“Just speak to iconic figures like Johnny Sexton and Ronan O’Gara; being a Lion is an extraordinary honour.”
Of the squad announced by Farrell, only 12 have previous Lions experience.
“However, there’s a wealth of familiarity within the team and how they operate, especially in terms of connections,” Schmidt highlighted.
“With 15 Irish players and 12 from Leinster, I believe there’s a solid backbone to build on.”
The Lions will feature in six matches prior to their first Test in Brisbane on July 19, whereas Australia will only have one match against Fiji in Newcastle on July 6.
Regarding individual matchups, Schmidt mentioned he hasn’t started strategising just yet.
“I want to ensure I get some rest before the series begins, so I won’t delve too deeply into one-on-one matchups just yet,” he remarked.
Joe Schmidt (left) and Les Kiss pose during a media opportunity at Allianz Stadium. Getty
“Last year, we aimed to build an understanding of our identity and playing style amidst our many newcomers and the diverse range of our squad.
“Our focus will not be on what we believe is coming. Instead, we’ll prepare to respond to any challenges while ensuring we remain true to our own style of play, as straying too far from that can cloud our direction.”
British and Irish Lions Squad
Forwards: Maro Itoje (England, captain), Tadhg Beirne (Ireland), Ollie Chessum (England), Jack Conan (Ireland), Luke Cowan-Dickie (England), Scott Cummings (Scotland), Tom Curry (England), Ben Earl (England), Zander Fagerson (Scotland), Tadhg Furlong (Ireland), Ellis Genge (England), Ronan Kelleher (Ireland), Joe McCarthy (Ireland), Jac Morgan (Wales), Henry Pollock (England), Andrew Porter (Ireland), James Ryan (Ireland), Pierre Schoeman (Scotland), Dan Sheehan (Ireland), Will Stuart (England), Josh van der Flier (Ireland)
Backs: Bundee Aki (Ireland), Elliot Daly (England), Tommy Freeman (England), Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland), Mack Hansen (Ireland), Huw Jones (Scotland), Hugo Keenan (Ireland), Blair Kinghorn (Scotland), James Lowe (Ireland), Alex Mitchell (England), Gary Ringrose (Ireland), Finn Russell (Scotland), Fin Smith (England), Marcus Smith (England), Sione Tuipulotu (Scotland), Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland), Tomos Williams (Wales)
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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