Why the 2025 British and Irish Lions Won’t Match the Strength of the 2013 Tour

A peak moment for Ireland may have passed. After a tough performance during the November Tests – where they were soundly beaten by the All Blacks, struggled against Los Pumas, and labored to a win over the Wallabies – it seemed that what was once viewed as a plateau has now become a decline, further highlighted by their recent loss to France.

France, dominant in the opening stages, had the Test wrapped up within the first 10 minutes, as their defense easily handled Ireland’s slow, predictable attack.

Yet, Ireland remains the strongest of the Home Nations, which brings us to the reality of the 2025 British and Irish Lions squad. Unlike the 2013 squad, which was anchored by Six Nations champions Wales, the 2025 team won’t feature the same depth of talent. The 2013 backline boasted players like Conor Murray, Mike Phillips, Ben Youngs, Johnny Sexton, Owen Farrell, and midfielders like Jamie Roberts, Jonathan Davies, Brian O’Driscoll, and Manu Tuilagi. The forwards included Sam Warburton, Dan Lydiate, Talupe Faletau, Sean O’Brien, Justin Tipuric, and a strong second-row pairing of Alun-Wyn Jones and Paul O’Connell.

As we look ahead, the question remains whether the Wallabies can seize the moment and rise to the challenge in the upcoming years.

Waratahs’ Purposeful Performance Shows Promise

Waratahs coach Dan McKellar was right to temper expectations following their third consecutive win. Some may argue that Super Rugby Pacific organizers gave them a favorable start to aid one of the competition’s key markets, but there’s no denying that the Waratahs showcased a real sense of purpose on Saturday.

Andrew Kellaway’s try was a shining moment in an attack that was both powerful in the middle and dynamic out wide. The Waratahs’ growth was visible, especially with the selection of Ben Grant and No. 10 Lawson Creighton, who provided a clear improvement over those they replaced.

Despite this progress, the Waratahs are facing potential setbacks with injuries to key players Jake Gordon and Langi Gleeson, adding uncertainty as they prepare for their derby against the Reds.

Brumbies’ Bench Provides Key Impact in Eden Park Victory

It’s not over ’til it’s over #SuperRugbyPacific #BLUvBRU pic.twitter.com/0aUdij1gQC

— Super Rugby Pacific (@SuperRugby) March 7, 2025

Billy Pollard’s performance off the bench was one of the key highlights in the Brumbies’ 21-20 win at Eden Park. The Brumbies hooker has truly arrived as a Super Rugby force, with his 29-minute contribution proving pivotal.

Pollard’s presence was felt both in loose play and at set-piece, with the Brumbies’ scrum putting the Blues under pressure in the final stages of the match. Pollard also showed remarkable tenacity, getting his hands on the ball nine times during the championship minutes.

In a well-timed move, the Brumbies also brought in Cadeyrn Neville just before a crucial scrum penalty, adding extra power. While Nick Frost was unfortunate to be replaced, the coaching staff’s decision paid off with the game-winning scrum.

Reds’ Naivety Costly in Crusaders Loss

Despite producing strong attacking stats, the Reds’ loss to the Crusaders revealed some tactical weaknesses. The Reds made 469 meters, beat 29 defenders, and had 8 clean breaks – all superior numbers to the Crusaders – but they were too often caught playing expansive rugby in their own territory.

This gave the Crusaders the chance to counterattack effectively and punish the Reds for their lack of strategic kicking, with the Reds only making 19 kicks compared to the Crusaders’ 27. Ahead of their match against the Waratahs, the Reds will undoubtedly reassess their approach and ensure better tactical discipline.

Angus Gardner’s Decisions Were Spot On Despite Criticism

Congratulations to Emirates World Rugby Match Official Angus Gardner who today becomes the first Australian to referee 50 tests.

Ahead of the @SixNationsRugby match between @IrishRugby & @FranceRugby Angus shares his thoughts on what the milestone means, those who have helped… pic.twitter.com/7kywP8EBAp

— World Rugby Media (@worldrugbymedia) March 8, 2025

After France’s win against Ireland, emotions ran high, particularly regarding Antoine Dupont’s knee injury and a head clash that forced Pierre-Louis Barassi’s substitution. Coach Fabien Galthie expressed frustration over both incidents, but Australian referee Angus Gardner’s calls were correct.

Gardner, in his 50th Test, offered clear explanations on both the Dupont injury and the yellow card for Ireland’s Calvin Nash, who was penalized for an accidental head clash with Barassi. Despite the frustration surrounding the incident, replays confirmed Gardner’s decisions were accurate.

The only controversial call appeared to favor France, where Peter O’Mahony was taken out by French second-rower Thibaud Flament, creating the space for a crucial France try early in the second half.

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Sourced:The Sunday Morning Herald