Lynagh to Start for Australia in First Lions Test as Wallabies Seek Opening Win

The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as Tom Lynagh, son of Wallabies legend Michael Lynagh, prepares to emulate his father by starting at fly-half for Australia in Saturday’s first Test against the British and Irish Lions. The 22-year-old, who will earn his fourth cap, steps into the spotlight at Suncorp Stadium, the same venue where his father famously wore the number 10 jersey during the 1989 series.

With regular starter Noah Lolesio sidelined and experienced forward Rob Valetini ruled out with a calf injury, head coach Joe Schmidt has opted for a blend of youth and experience in his squad. Promising flanker Champion de Crespigny makes his Test debut, while Harry Wilson takes on the captaincy from number eight.

The midfield sees a high-profile pairing, with Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, the rising cross-code star, lining up alongside Len Ikitau in a bold selection that omits towering lock Will Skelton.

A Transitional Australian Side Faces Stern Lions Challenge

Schmidt’s starting XV features four changes from the narrow 21-18 victory over Fiji earlier this month. Despite that win, the Australian coach has tempered expectations, admitting his side needs a significant step up to compete with the in-form Lions.

We didn’t play well enough for people to have the expectation that we’re going to come bowling into Brisbane and knock the Lions over, Schmidt admitted.

However, the Wallabies will draw confidence from their rich history at Suncorp Stadium, a venue former scrum-half Will Genia describes as Australia’s unofficial home of rugby. The stadium has been a fortress for the Wallabies, and Genia believes the atmosphere will inspire the current squad.

Suncorp Stadium: A Historic Wallabies Stronghold

Despite the Lions’ unbeaten record in Brisbane, Genia remains optimistic, citing the stadium’s unique energy as a key factor.

If I think back to the 2013 series against the Lions, it was the greatest experience of my rugby career, he told Rugby Union Weekly. The tradition, history, and sheer scale of the occasion made it unforgettable. Playing at Suncorp, you feel the crowd behind you—it’s a true home-ground advantage.

While injuries to Valetini and Skelton are setbacks, Schmidt confirmed both were close to selection. They were right on the edge—if this were the last game of the series, they probably would have played, he explained. But we can’t rush them.

Wallabies Line-Up: A Mix of Debutants and Experience

Schmidt’s side sees some bold selections, including Angus Bell held in reserve on the bench, with veteran James Slipper starting at loose-head prop. The second row features Nick Frost and Jeremy Williams in Skelton’s absence.

Australia’s Starting XV:

15. Andrew Wright
14. Mark Jorgensen
13. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii
12. Len Ikitau
11. Jordan Potter
10. Tom Lynagh
9. Jake Gordon
1. James Slipper
2. Matt Faessler
3. Allan Alaalatoa
4. Nick Frost
5. Jeremy Williams
6. Champion de Crespigny (Debut)
7. Fraser McReight
8. Harry Wilson (c)

Replacements:

16. Jordan Pollard
17. Angus Bell
18. Zane Robertson
19. Michael Hooper
20. Carlo Tizzano
21. Ryan McDermott
22. Ben Donaldson
23. Andrew Kellaway

Lynagh Poised to Shine in Test Debut Against Lions

As Tom Lynagh prepares to step onto the field in his father’s footsteps, all eyes will be on whether he can handle the pressure against a world-class Lions outfit. The match is not just a Test debut for several players but a pivotal moment in Australia’s rebuilding phase under Schmidt.

With the roar of Suncorp Stadium behind them, the Wallabies will aim to defy the odds and start the series with a historic win. For Tom Lynagh, this is more than just a game—it’s the chance to carve his own legacy in Australian rugby.

The Lions Test kicks off a fierce three-match series, and if the Wallabies can harness their home advantage, we could be in for one of the most memorable clashes in recent rugby history.