Farrell to Captain Lions Against Pasifika Team in Historic Melbourne Clash

Owen Farrell Leads Lions in Crucial Midweek Fixture

Owen Farrell has been named captain of the British and Irish Lions for their upcoming match against a combined First Nations and Pasifika XV in Melbourne. This marks Farrell’s first start of the tour and his first time leading the side in four Lions campaigns. The Saracens star, who came off the bench in the previous game against the AUNZ Invitational, will partner Ireland’s Jamie Osborne in a midfield combination that looks to test defensive structures ahead of the second Test.

The Lions have made sweeping changes to their starting XV, resting all players who featured in their dramatic first-Test victory over Australia. However, three Test squad members—Ben Earl, Marcus Smith, and Alex Mitchell—are included on the bench, providing experience and firepower if needed. Scotland is heavily represented in the matchday squad, with nine players selected, including full-back Blair Kinghorn, who returns from injury to reclaim his preferred position.

Up front, Jamie George takes the starting hooker role, reinforcing the Lions’ set-piece strength alongside props Pierre Schoeman and Finlay Bealham. The back row features an exciting blend of power and work ethic, with Jac Morgan shifting to blindside flanker for the first time on tour alongside Josh van der Flier and Henry Pollock. Meanwhile, rising stars like Fin Smith and Ben White reprise their half-back partnership following their dominant performance against the AUNZ Invitational.

Can Players Force Their Way into Test Contention?

With the second Test looming, several Lions will be eager to stake their claim for a spot in Andy Farrell’s matchday squad. Blair Kinghorn, in particular, could press for the full-back role after Hugo Keenan’s inconsistent showing in Brisbane. Similarly, a commanding performance from Farrell at inside centre might see him challenge for a bench role, potentially displacing Marcus Smith.

Garry Ringrose’s return to fitness adds another intriguing subplot. The Irish centre was in sublime form before injury struck, and his potential reintroduction could force a midfield reshuffle. Will Farrell retain the current Scottish pairing of Huw Jones and Sione Tuipulotu, or will Ringrose’s experience earn him a recall?

In the back row, Jac Morgan’s shift to blindside offers a chance to showcase his versatility, while Ben Earl remains the frontrunner for the bench role after his impactful showing in the first Test. With competition fierce, every tackle, carry, and decision could sway selection debates ahead of the weekend’s crucial clash.

Kurtley Beale Returns to Lead Historic Pasifika Side

Opposing Farrell’s Lions will be a spirited First Nations and Pasifika XV, skippered by veteran Wallabies utility back Kurtley Beale. The 36-year-old, who faced the Lions during the 2013 tour, described the occasion as a “huge honour” and emphasized the cultural significance of the match.

“We have an opportunity to represent our families and culture, which is really important to all of us,” Beale said. The team, blending Indigenous Australian and Pacific Islander talent, includes Test-quality players like Tonga-born prop Taniela Tupou and Fijian wing Filipo Daugunu, both released from the Wallabies camp for the fixture.

Coach Toutai Kefu, a 1999 World Cup winner with Australia, praised the impact of his star recruits, stating they bring “an injection of confidence” to a side eager to make history. For many players, this match represents a rare chance to test themselves against elite opposition while celebrating their heritage.

What to Expect from the Encounter

With the Lions prioritizing player rotation and the Pasifika team playing for pride and recognition, the match promises a fascinating contrast in motivations. Expect expansive rugby, thunderous collisions, and a vibrant atmosphere at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium.

For the Lions, the game is an opportunity to fine-tune combinations and assess fringe players before the Test series resumes. For the Pasifika side, it’s a landmark occasion—one that blends high-performance rugby with cultural celebration.

As Owen Farrell leads his team out, all eyes will be on whether this midweek fixture can produce performances strong enough to sway Test selection. One thing is certain: with Farrell at the helm, the Lions will demand nothing less than relentless intensity.

Teams

First Nations & Pasifika XV: Muirhead; Reilly, Foketi, Feliuai, Daugunu; Beale (capt), Thomas; Ieli, Paenga-Amosa, Tupou, Swain, Salakaia-Loto, Uru, Gamble, Tualima
Replacements: Asiata, Pearce, Doge, Vocevoce, Leota, Goddard, Debreczeni, McLeod

British and Irish Lions: Kinghorn; Graham, Osborne, Farrell (capt), Van der Merwe; F Smith, White; Schoeman, George, Bealham, Ryan, Cummings, Morgan, Van der Flier, Pollock
Replacements: Ashman, Sutherland, Clarkson, Brown, Earl, Mitchell, M Smith, Ringrose

Officials: Nika Amashukeli (Referee), Ben O’Keeffe & Andrea Piardi (Assistant Referees), Marius Jonker (TMO)

This match not only serves as a warm-up for the Lions but also stands as a symbol of unity and respect for Indigenous and Pacific rugby traditions. Under Farrell’s leadership, the tourists will aim to blend ruthlessness with spectacle—setting the stage for another unforgettable Lions tour moment.