
Rugby
Share
Published 14:48 22 Jul 2025 BST
Updated 22:51 22 Jul 2025 BST

The Lions' 24-19 win over First Nations & Pasifika XV was a game to forget, with few, if any, putting their hand up for a start in Saturday's second Test against Australia.
Speaking post-match, former Scotland captain John Barclay picked his side for the weekend's clash, and controversially dropped two Irish players.
Despite a good showing from Hugo Keenan in last Saturday's Test, he opted for Scotland's Blair Kinghorn, who blew hot and cold against Pasifika, throwing two costly intercept passes.
He also picked Mack Hansen to come in for James Lowe.
Barclay said: "Blair Kinghorn did enough tonight. I think he probably was the starter pre the firsT Test.
"It would be hard on Hugo Keenan, but I've also added Mack Hansen.
"I think he has had a superb Tour, on and off the ball, he's so busy.
"His kick chase..... I think he adds so much to what is already an amazing backline."
In response, Ronan O'Gara completely disagreed with the latter choice.
The Ireland legend said: "I would be hugely shocked if James Lowe does not feature. I think he's an absolute certainty to start.
"I just think his all-round game. I think we got a little taste of his fend, what he can do with the ball.
"I think for exits, which is really important in big Test games, that's a great option."
In regards to Keenan, he added: "I think he'll stick with Keenan.
"It's very hard to take out a 15 and last line of defence, but Kinghorn offers more on the other side of the ball for certain."
Explore more on these topics:
Keith Earls takes opposite stance to O’Mahony on ex-Munster coach
Interesting… Peter O’Mahony was in the news recently over his comments on former Munster head coach Graham Rowntree [Wig]. Their relationship soured towards the end of Rowntree’s time at Munster – he left abruptly in the middle of the 2024/2025 season – with both O’Mahony, and fellow Munster icon Conor Murray, both speaking of the […]
Rugby
2 days ago
Two uncapped players as Andy Farrell names intriguing Ireland squad
Exciting times! Head coach Andy Farrell has named his Ireland squad for the upcoming Nations Championship games next month. Ireland begin their campaign against Argentina on November 6 (kick-off: 8.10pm), before facing Fiji on November 14 (kick-off: 8.10pm), and South Africa on November 21 (kick-off: 4.40pm). Dan Sheehan captains the squad, while there are two […]
Rugby
3 days ago
Rugby
We picked our ultimate Ireland rugby U23 team
Rugby