Blair Kinghorn and James Ryan have been named in the starting lineup for the British & Irish Lions’ final Test against Australia, as the touring side aims to complete a historic series whitewash in Sydney on Saturday.
Kinghorn comes in on the left wing, replacing James Lowe, who drops out of the matchday squad. Although typically a fullback, Kinghorn has regularly featured on the wing for his club side and made a strong impression off the bench during the dramatic second Test win in Melbourne. Ryan also earns a starting role, replacing Ollie Chessum in the second row after a powerful showing as a substitute last week.
The Lions, seeking to become the first team to whitewash Australia since 1927 and the first to go unbeaten in a series since 1974, have made only minimal changes to the side that clinched the series. Maro Itoje continues as captain, partnering Ryan in the second row. Tadhg Furlong, Dan Sheehan, and Andrew Porter once again form a formidable front row, with the back-row trio of Tadhg Beirne, Tom Curry, and Jack Conan also retained.
The midfield remains unchanged with Bundee Aki and Huw Jones, while Jamison Gibson-Park and Finn Russell continue their halfback partnership. Tommy Freeman stays on the right wing and Hugo Keenan retains his place at fullback after his late try sealed the series in Melbourne.
On the bench, Owen Farrell is again part of a 6-2 split, providing cover alongside Alex Mitchell. Ben Earl returns to the bench after missing the second Test. The forward reinforcements include Ellis Genge, Ronan Kelleher, Will Stuart, Ollie Chessum, Jac Morgan, and Earl.
Joe McCarthy’s availability remains uncertain following a foot injury that ruled him out of the second Test, but Ryan’s recent performances have earned him a deserved place in the starting XV.
With the squad settled and confidence high, the Lions are focused on finishing the tour on a high. The team’s head coach emphasized the importance of delivering their best performance yet, anticipating another intense encounter against a Wallabies side desperate to avoid a clean sweep.
