The British & Irish Lions head coach Andy Farrell has emphasized that players outside the traditional international setup and those based in France remain under consideration for the 2025 tour to Australia. This move could significantly expand the talent pool available, ensuring the Lions select the best players regardless of where they are currently playing.
Farrell’s Inclusive Selection Approach
Farrell, who will take charge of the Lions for the first time, highlighted the importance of keeping all potential squad members engaged. While traditionally, selection has leaned heavily on players actively involved in their national teams, Farrell has made it clear that no door is closed.
“Every player who is eligible should believe they have a chance,” Farrell stated. “We want to put the best team out there, and that means looking at all the talent available, whether they are playing international rugby at the moment or not.”
This announcement is particularly significant for players based in the French Top 14. Historically, selection for the Lions has favored those playing in England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, largely due to club agreements and availability. However, Farrell’s approach suggests a shift in thinking, potentially including star performers from the French league.
The Impact of French-Based Players on Selection
Several top-tier British and Irish players have moved to France in recent years, drawn by lucrative contracts and the highly competitive environment of the Top 14. The challenge for these players has often been balancing club commitments with national duty, as French clubs do not always release players outside of World Rugby-mandated windows.
| Key British & Irish Players in France | Club |
|---|---|
| Finn Russell | Racing 92 |
| Jack Willis | Toulouse |
| Zach Mercer | Gloucester (previously Montpellier) |
| Joe Marchant | Stade Français |
With Farrell’s more flexible approach, these players could be in contention despite their club affiliations.
A New Era for the Lions?
Farrell’s stance signals a departure from past selection policies, which often excluded players based outside the UK and Ireland due to logistical and contractual challenges. While this could lead to negotiations with clubs over player availability, it ultimately ensures that the best talent represents the Lions on their 2025 tour.
Moreover, including non-internationals could see some previously overlooked players making their case for selection. Individuals who have excelled at club level but have not had international opportunities due to coaching decisions or injuries may now find themselves on the Lions’ radar.
The Challenge of Cohesion
While widening the selection criteria could strengthen the squad, it also presents challenges. One of the main strengths of the Lions is their ability to build chemistry quickly, despite players coming from different nations and playing styles. Selecting non-internationals or those who have been out of the Test environment for some time may require additional focus on squad unity.
Farrell acknowledged this but remained confident in his ability to create a strong team dynamic. “The Lions is about bringing players together, uniting them under one jersey, and making them believe they are part of something bigger,” he said. “As long as we get the balance right, there’s no reason why we can’t integrate players from different backgrounds successfully.”
Potential Candidates for the 2025 Tour
Beyond the established internationals, several players who are not currently in national setups or are based abroad could come into contention under Farrell’s approach.
| Potential Non-International or France-Based Selections | Position |
| Henry Arundell (Racing 92) | Wing |
| Alex Dombrandt (Harlequins) | Back Row |
| Sam Simmonds (Montpellier) | No. 8 |
| Joe Simmonds (Pau) | Fly-Half |
| Nathan Hughes (Playing in Japan) | No. 8 |
These players bring unique strengths to their club sides but have either been overlooked for international duty or chosen to play abroad. Farrell’s approach means their Lions ambitions remain very much alive.
Final Thoughts
Andy Farrell’s open-minded selection strategy for the British & Irish Lions 2025 tour could reshape the squad composition and enhance its overall strength. By considering non-internationals and French-based players, Farrell is prioritizing form and ability over location and recent international involvement. While this presents new challenges in terms of squad cohesion and club negotiations, it also ensures the best possible team takes the field against Australia. The rugby world will watch with keen interest to see how this approach unfolds in the coming months.