"Five selection dilemmas Andy Farrell faces for opening Lions Test"

Van der Flier, Curry, Morgan, or Pollock?

The Lions have hardly had a moment to pause recently. Is it Thursday in Canberra or Friday in Adelaide? Whatever the day, another match is approaching quickly. With little time for proper preparation, the coaching staff have depended on players stepping up during games, but no one has fully secured the No. 7 position yet.

This is crucial because the Wallabies are strong at the breakdown and have multiple players capable of pilfering possession. If Jack Willis of Toulouse were available, the discussion might differ, but it appears one starting spot is up for grabs between Josh van der Flier, Jac Morgan, Tom Curry, and Henry Pollock.

Curry had an opportunity to cement his place against the Brumbies but, like many teammates, struggled. The other three will feature against the Australia-New Zealand Invitational XV this weekend, leaving plenty to be decided.

Pollock’s ability to change a game has caught the coaches’ attention, while Morgan, though not the biggest, is disruptive at the breakdown. Curry’s work rate remains hard to ignore, though Andy Farrell may opt for familiarity by starting Van der Flier.

Chessum or Beirne – or Both?

Australia is fond of big reds, whether kangaroos or robust wines. The same applies to Ollie Chessum, whose fiery presence has left a mark. He has been one of the Lions’ most consistent forwards, making his potential exclusion from the Test squad unlikely.

The question is his role—whether he fits best in the second row or back row. The balance against the Brumbies was imperfect, and the final tour match offers one last chance to adjust. Tadhg Beirne has played extensively this season, but is he at his peak? Could the Lions prioritize mobility by starting both Beirne and Chessum together for the first time?

Beirne returns to the second row this weekend. Selecting him there for the first Test would likely mean leaving out Joe McCarthy—unless Beirne delivers a standout performance, forcing a rethink.

Aki, Tuipulotu, or Farrell?

Before the tour, Sione Tuipulotu was favored in midfield. However, injury and lack of recent game time have affected his form. In contrast, Bundee Aki provides direct, powerful play at inside center, giving Finn Russell a reliable option—either as a decoy or carrier. Opponents may prepare for his style, but stopping him from short range is still a challenge.

Tuipulotu now faces a decisive match against a physical Au-NZ Invitational XV—raise his game or risk a Test place slipping away. And what of Owen Farrell? Who would the Lions rather bring off the bench?