The British & Irish Lions are undefeated since landing on Australian soil and it’s now time for head coach Andy Farrell to select his starting XV and replacements for the first of the three match test series against the Wallabies.
Several players have put their hands up and impressed in the warm up fixtures so far, giving Farrell a tough choice in a number of positions. We are predicting the first test will feature a heavily Irish influenced squad with a back line made up largely of Scotland stars.
Here is the Edinburgh Evening News’ predicted British & Irish Lions starting XV for the first test against Australia:
13. Huw Jones
The 13 position was also a coin toss but an injury has ruled out Ireland's Garry Ringrose meaning the electric Jones is a certain starter. He is even better when playing alongside Glasgow and Scotland teammate Tuipulotu and that partnership should now extend to Test match Lions. | Getty Images
14. James Lowe
Has done enough on tour to hold of competition from Ireland teammate Mack Hansen and England's Tommy Freeman and will be expected to line up in the 14 jersey against the Wallabies | Getty Images
15. Blair Kinghorn
It's a race for fitness for the Scotland full-back but if he wins that then he should edge out Ireland's Hugo Keenan who has perhaps not shown his best on tour so far. England's Marcus Smith should take a spot on the bench to cover both 10 and 15. | AFP via Getty Images