As head coach Andy Farrell aims to lead the Lions to their first series win in 12 years, the selection on 8 May will set the tone for the Tour ahead.
Finn Russell during Scotland’s match against France at Stade de France (Photo: Getty)
Before the Six Nations, Russell’s selection as first-choice fly-half for the tour seemed set in stone. The talisman for Scotland and Bath seemed like the natural successor, having toured with the Lions twice – first in 2017 before returning in 2021 after an Achilles injury.
Alongside compatriot Huw Jones or Ireland’s Bundee Aki, Russell and Tuipulotu would give the Lions an attacking advantage and necessary speed in the backline.
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He had the lowest goal-kicking success in comparison to the other Lions contenders in the tournament, only slotting 70 per cent of his attempts, with Sam Prendergast fractionally better.
But the selection of former Ireland fly-half Johnny Sexton as assistant coach could be a sign that Russell’s name is no longer top of selection, following comments about the “flashy” and “media darling” Scotsman.
Fin Smith
Fin Smith during England’s Six Nations 2025 match against France at Twickenham (Photo: Getty)As England’s new first choice, Fin Smith went from strength to strength in the Six Nations, playing himself into contention for his first Lions tour.
Smith’s 50-metre penalty goal against Wales and his cross-field kick to Tommy Freeman on the wing against France exemplified the 22-year-old’s playmaking talents and provided plenty for Andy Farrell to chew on.
His relaxed personality is his trademark, and although his inexperience casts doubt, having stepped seamlessly into Dan Biggar’s boots at Northampton in 2022, it seems fitting for Smith to do the same with the Lions, taking the role of reserve to Russell’s starter.
Marcus Smith
Marcus Smith celebrates scoring for England’s fourth try against Italy (Photo: Getty)He was called up by Warren Gatland in 2021 as Russell’s injury cover, days after making his England debut against the US, and even started for the Lions in their 49-3 victory over DHL Stormers.
But Smith has continued to be impactful for Harlequins in attack and defence, matching namesake Fin Smith in 73 per cent successful tackles made and 441 metres carried, the most of the Premiership fly-halves on the list this season.
Sam Prendergast prepares a penalty kick against France (Photo: Getty)
The Irish fly-half’s talent is undeniable, and with Farrell’s role as his former head coach and Johnny Sexton’s involvement, Prendergast has been sculpted into what Farrell wants.
Looking at the numbers behind his recent Six Nations, Prendergast showed he still has areas of improvement, making only 57 per cent of tackles successfully.
George Ford
England’s George Ford during the Autumn Nations Series against (Photo: Getty)But with everything Ford has achieved in his 99 international caps, “bolting” his way to a debut in the Lions would be a fitting way to reach his 100th.
Even though he is regarded as the third-choice English fly-half, Ford has continued this strong performance in the Premiership and with his long career, he brings the experience that could be impactful on and off the pitch in the unique Lions set up.
Owen Farrell
Owen Farrell during Racing 92’s match against Toulon in 2024 (Photo: Getty)If Lions fly-half experience is considered necessary, he has the most, with impactful performances off the tee in his two previous tours – particularly in New Zealand (2017).
The i Paper’s verdict: Finn Russell (starting), Fin Smith (reserve), Marcus Smith (tourist)
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