Lions’ Midweek Fixture Takes on Personal Significance
The British & Irish Lions’ match against a First Nations & Pasifika XV on Tuesday has sparked debate. Some question the purpose of the game, scheduled between the first two Tests. The inclusion of five additional players, primarily to rest key squad members, suggests the fixture is seen as little more than an obligation. Yet when Jamie George speaks about what it means to wear the Lions jersey again, perspectives shift. Even the least glamorous moments carry new meaning.
George’s journey to rejoin the Lions was far from straightforward. After initially missing selection, he seized the opportunity to replace the injured Luke Cowan-Dickie. His 47-hour trip took him from Argentina—where he had been preparing for England’s match against the Pumas—through Brazil and Dubai before reaching Brisbane. “I circled the globe,” he joked, crediting TV shows and films for keeping him entertained while following a strict sleep schedule set by the Lions’ staff.
Alongside George, Jamie Osborne, Thomas Clarkson, Darcy Graham, Ewan Ashman, Gregor Brown, and Rory Sutherland have been named in the squad for Tuesday’s game. Blair Kinghorn also returns from injury.
Head coach Andy Farrell claims to be keeping selection open for the second Test, but realistically, only Kinghorn and Garry Ringrose, on the bench, stand a chance. Owen Farrell will captain the side, with George possibly among the reserves. For the most part, however, the midweek fixture will feature squad members who have seen limited action.
For George, this match holds deep personal significance. His father, Ian, is traveling to Melbourne to watch him play—a moment made more poignant following the loss of his mother, Jane, to cancer last year. George reflects on the 2017 tour of New Zealand, where both parents watched him play, as one of his happiest memories.
“My dad is on his way,” George said. “Of course, it’s sad that my mum can’t be here, but being able to do this for him—giving him the chance to travel and see me play for the Lions—that’s what makes it special. It’s what motivates me.”
He acknowledges the emotional weight of the occasion: “I didn’t think this opportunity would come. When the squad was announced, I was heartbroken. Now, I’m grateful to wear the jersey again—maybe for the last time, maybe not. But I’ll play like it is.”
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