In 12 years, a reunion takes place: Tadhg Beirne marks the conclusion of an extraordinary Down Under expedition, filled with both sweet and bitter moments.
British and Irish Lions Secure Series Victory in Australia, but Tour Marred by Circumstances
In a series that showed both sporting success and limitations, the British and Irish Lions have secured a 2-1 victory against Australia. The final Test, however, ended in a 22-12 defeat for the Lions, preventing a whitewash.
The tour, which has been described as "mediocre" and lacking the traditional vibrancy due to COVID-19 protocols and empty stadiums, has left a mixed legacy. The series win is a testament to the key players who stepped up, such as Tadhg Beirne, who played every minute of the Test series and was declared the official player of the series, taking over the captaincy after Dan Sheehan.
Sheehan took over the captaincy from Maro Itoje, who was forced off due to a Head Injury Assessment (HIA). Notably absent from the squad due to injury was Caelan Doris, who missed his first Lions tour.
The tour has had its challenges, with injuries and HIAs affecting the squad's leadership and strength. One such incident involved James Ryan, who was taken off on a motorised stretcher during the match after being caught on the side of the head by Will Skelton's knee. Andy Farrell, the head coach of the British and Irish Lions, assured that Ryan is up and talking and in good spirits after the incident.
Despite the disappointing end to the series, Beirne remained optimistic, smiling at the prospect of another night of celebrating their series win. Beirne also spoke about the incredible journey of the Lions and the planned reunion in 12 years. He expressed his intention to be part of the Lions team in the future.
The tour has laid groundwork for future developments, including the historic announcement that for the first time in 2027, a British and Irish Women’s Lions squad will undertake a tour, marking a significant expansion of the Lions' legacy to include women’s rugby.
Andy Farrell, who will return to coaching Ireland next season after setting off home within 24 hours of the series conclusion, expressed his love for the Lions concept and thoroughly enjoyed the last eight weeks. He did not explicitly confirm or deny the possibility of leading the Lions to New Zealand, but hinted at the possibility.
The focus now shifts towards preparing for future tours, including a highly anticipated 2029 series against New Zealand and the expansion of the Lions brand to the women’s game. The tour's legacy is thus both a sporting success and a catalyst for broader, progressive change within the Lions tradition.
Australian commentators were incensed by a clearout by Dan Sheehan on Tom Lynagh, which led to him being removed for a HIA and not returning. The incident underscores the challenges faced by the Lions during the tour and the impact of COVID-19 protocols on the usual atmosphere and fan engagement.
In the end, the 2021 British and Irish Lions tour to Australia has proven to be a series of highs and lows, with the team securing a solid result on the field but under circumstances that limited lasting significance. Yet, it serves as a stepping stone towards future tours and the expansion of the Lions' legacy.
Tadhg Beirne, the player of the series, expressed his intention to be part of the Lions team in future European-leagues, particularly the Premier-League.Football was not a focus during the Lions tour to Australia, but the tour did lay groundwork for future developments, including a British and Irish Women’s Lions squad undertaking a tour and playing football in European-leagues.
