Garry Ringrose will not play in the third British & Irish Lions match against Australia on Saturday after experiencing concussion symptoms. However, the coaches have confirmed they will select the strongest available lineup as they aim for an unbeaten series, a feat not achieved since 1974.
Ringrose reported his condition just before the team announcement for the second match, resulting in a mandatory 12-day recovery period that excludes him from the Sydney fixture. On a positive note, Joe McCarthy, Mack Hansen, and Sione Tuipulotu participated fully in training on Tuesday and are under consideration for selection.
Before training began, a team activity took place to shift focus from the previous match’s celebrations. The session included a modified version of the "green light, red light" challenge, requiring players to move carefully while avoiding detection. Thomas Clarkson was the first eliminated, but the squad soon turned their attention to preparations.
The selection meeting will take place on Wednesday evening, with major changes unlikely as the team pursues a historic result. Maro Itoje is expected to lead the side once more, despite surpassing the Rugby Football Union’s 30-game limit.
"The number of available players at this stage is impressive," said assistant coach Andrew Goodman. "Unfortunately, Garry is sidelined, but Mack, Joe, and Sione were all active today.
"We had an engaging session, with players using obstacles to stay hidden while being observed. It was a good team exercise.
"The drive to win all three matches is immense. The last unbeaten Lions series was in 1974, so the motivation is strong. We’ll choose the best possible lineup—whether that means adjustments or consistency remains to be seen. Recovery will influence the final 23, but whoever is selected will give their all.
"Performance matters—those in good form deserve recognition. It’s about balance, and we’ll discuss it thoroughly."
Ringrose has been commended for promptly reporting his symptoms. "Naturally, he’s disappointed," Goodman added. "He was outstanding on this tour, fulfilling a long-held dream of representing the Lions. Missing the final match is difficult, but he’s supporting the team however he can."
Read next
"Guardian Sport Weekend: Lions' Third Test, England vs. India, Women’s Open Action"
Rugby Union
11am Australia v British & Irish Lions live
The Lions enter the third and final Test against the Wallabies with a chance to secure a historic series sweep, an achievement not seen in decades. Lee Calvert will provide updates throughout. No Lions team has remained undefeated since Willie
Wallabies crush Lions' clean sweep bid in storm-lashed Sydney clash
Lions Fall Short as Wallabies Secure Series Finale
The hopes of a dominant tour for the British & Irish Lions came to an end as they suffered their first defeat in Australia on a rain-soaked evening in Sydney. The home side rose to the occasion, overcoming challenging weather and a
"Live: England vs India in fifth men's cricket Test, day three"
39th over: India 155-2 (Jaiswal 80, Akash Deep 51) Overton moves away from short-pitched deliveries, conceding just a single.
Guy Hornsby observes, "England will regret those dropped catches as the runs pile up, especially once Jaiswal reaches his century. Woakes’ absence was significant, though England managed well initially. Now,