Lions Make Three Major Changes for Second Test, Owen Farrell Named on Bench

MELBOURNE (July 24, 2025) – Ahead of the British & Irish Lions’ second Test match against Australia at the MCG, head coach Andy Farrell has made three significant changes to the starting XV, while including his son Owen Farrell on the replacements bench as the tourists aim to clinch the series. Joe McCarthy is sidelined by injury, Andrew Porter replaces Ellis Genge at loosehead prop, and Bundee Aki starts at inside centre in place of the injured Sione Tuipulotu. Farrell Jr. will make what may be his seventh Lions Test appearance from the bench, having been called up earlier in the tour as injury cover.

Strategic Adjustments Following Brisbane Win

The original starting side that secured a 27–19 win in Brisbane is adjusted to accommodate an England-heavy forward lineup and bolster the midfield. Joe McCarthy’s foot injury forces a change, and Ollie Chessum steps into the second row. At the front, Ireland’s Andrew Porter replaces Ellis Genge—a move aimed at reinforcing the scrum. In midfield, Bundee Aki starts alongside Huw Jones, replacing Australia-born Sione Tuipulotu, who had looked forward to playing in his hometown but was ruled out due to a hamstring issue.

Owen Farrell: From Midweek Standout to Test Bench

Owen Farrell earned a spot in the matchday 23 after impressing in the warm-up win against the First Nations & Pasifika XV, where commentators credited him with composure and tactical poise under pressure. Former Lions players like Dan Biggar and Ronan O’Gara praised his ability to read the game, manage kicks, and lead the backline structure—despite questions over whether his goal-kicking remains reliable following a groin injury and diminished form.

Farrell’s inclusion brings a strategic balance to the bench: his versatility as a fly-half or center opens tactical options late in the match. That said, a recent opinion piece criticized his reduced kicking effectiveness, casting doubt on his effectiveness as backline cover unless he can regain accuracy from the tee.

Squad Makeup and Bench Recomposition

The matchday squad now features a blend of Irish, Welsh, English, and Scottish players. Ireland has the highest representation with 11 players in the 23. Jac Morgan joins the replacements, restoring Welsh presence that was missing in the opening Test. Scots and English cover come via backs such as Blair Kinghorn, who has recovered from knee injury, and front-row reinforcements. (James Ryan, Jac Morgan, Owen Farrell, and Blair Kinghorn all join the bench.

Coach Farrell emphasized the need to elevate performance from the first Test, particularly in intensity and second-half consistency. He warned of an expected rebound from Australia at home, saying that the Wallabies would pose a stronger challenge in Melbourne.

Tactical Breakdown: Why the Changes Matter

• Midfield depth and cover: Bundee Aki gives the Lions a robust presence at 12, complementing Huw Jones and offering ball-carry threat.
• Forward stability: Porter’s arrival addresses set-piece pressure, while Chessum brings fresh legs opposite Maro Itoje and captain Maro Itoje anchors the scrum and defensive effort.
• Backline flexibility: Owen Farrell’s presence offers multi-positional cover and strategic kicking options depending on match flow.

Looking Ahead: Stakes and Player Futures

With the second Test representing a series opportunity to wrap up victory, these changes mark a shift toward consolidation and fine-tuning rather than wholesale reinvention. Farrell’s decision-making reflects a calling-up of experience and structure as opposed to solely attacking flair.

If Farrell and the Lions can execute a clinically better second half, they may secure the series at the MCG. Owen Farrell’s role—whether off the bench or in extended game time—could emerge as crucial, especially if the Lions require rebuilding momentum or shoring up structure late in the match.

Summary Table

The mix of changes reflects selection choices focused on structure, depth, and physical resilience. As the Lions look to extend their dominance and secure back-to-back series wins, the inclusion of Owen Farrell suggests coach Andy Farrell trusts experience, composure, and versatility under the intense pressure of Test rugby.