Dispute on Australia as potential Lions base considered disrespectful by Farrell
British & Irish Lions Secure Second Test Win, Eyeing Series Whitewash
The British & Irish Lions have continued their dominance in the current series against Australia, securing a 2-0 lead after victories in Brisbane and Melbourne. If they manage to win the third Test in Sydney this weekend, it will mark their first series whitewash since 1974.
Warren Gatland's men have been unfazed by the prospect of facing Australia, with coach Farrell expressing confidence that they are not a potential threat to be dismissed. This sentiment is shared by Lions captain Alun Wyn Jones, who considers the series as unbelievable for both Australian and UK rugby.
Despite the Lions' impressive form, there have been no reports suggesting they are seeking tougher competition or better commercial opportunities elsewhere. The 2025 tour of Australia, which featured a three-match test series against Australia and multiple matches against Australian Super Rugby franchises and invitational teams, was a competitive and commercially successful series, with the Lions emerging victorious 2-1.
Meanwhile, Australia is undergoing a rebuild under coach Joe Schmidt after being eliminated from the 2023 World Cup at the pool stages. Schmidt has been credited with bringing stability and a new work ethic, and has been blooding a lot of young players. His efforts are seen as work in progress, with Australia's performance on the weekend not surprising to the Lions.
However, Farrell expects Australia to improve on Saturday. Wallabies skipper Harry Wilson has refuted the notion of Australia being dumped as a host, stating that everyone involved in the series has loved being a part of it. Wilson sees the negative comments about the series as good for rugby, and believes the year ahead will be significant for Australia, as they prepare for the 2027 World Cup.
The Lions have won all eight tour games so far, with the third Test in Sydney marking the final opportunity to secure a series whitewash. The first tour of Australia took place in 1888, and this series promises to be another memorable chapter in the storied history of the British & Irish Lions.
In contrast to their current success in Australia, the British & Irish Lions have not shown any intentions of seeking tougher competition or better commercial opportunities in places like Africa or European leagues, such as the Champions League. Despite Australia's current rebuild, their young players are being blooded under coach Joe Schmidt, and the Wallabies skipper, Harry Wilson, is optimistic about Australia's prospects for the 2027 World Cup. Meanwhile, the Lions football team, known for their dominance in sports, is eyeing a series whitewash in the upcoming third Test in Sydney, marking another memorable chapter in their rich history that spans over a century.
