Wales scrum-half Tomos Williams has been ruled out for the remainder of the British & Irish Lions tour of Australia after suffering a torn hamstring while scoring his second try against Western Force. His injury is a significant setback for the squad, with Williams having made an energetic and influential start to the tour. In his absence, Scotland’s Ben White has been called up from his national team’s tour of New Zealand to bolster the Lions’ half-back options.
White has been in strong form for French club Toulon and brings valuable experience to the squad. The 29-cap international is familiar with forming a half-back partnership with fellow Scot Finn Russell, which could prove vital as the Lions face increasingly tough opposition in the coming matches. Williams’s exit also leaves flanker Jac Morgan as the only remaining Welsh player in the touring party.
As the Lions prepare for their next challenge, Ireland’s Jamison Gibson-Park and Hugo Keenan are set to make their debuts in Wednesday’s match against Queensland Reds. Both players had been sidelined due to earlier setbacks but have now been cleared to start. The side will once again be captained by Maro Itoje, who returns to lead the team following their dominant 54-7 victory over Western Force.
Fly-half Finn Russell, who impressed in the opening fixture, retains his starting spot and is expected to play a key role as the Lions aim to build momentum. Head coach Andy Farrell has emphasized the need for continual improvement, reminding his players that each fixture will present a sterner test. He also congratulated the new debutants and expressed confidence in the evolving squad.
Several other fresh faces will also make their first starts of the tour. Ireland’s Andrew Porter, Ronan Kelleher, and Jack Conan have all been named in the starting XV. England’s Will Stuart has been picked at tight-head prop, adding muscle to the front row. The Lions will be wary of underestimating the Queensland Reds, who boast a storied history and have famously defeated the Lions in 1899 and 1971.
The selected matchday squad features a blend of youth and experience, with dynamic players across all positions. The bench also includes solid reinforcements such as Luke Cowan-Dickie, Ellis Genge, and Garry Ringrose, offering further depth and versatility.
With the tour still in its early stages, the Lions are focused on maintaining their winning start while integrating new players and combinations. The match against the Reds is set to be a key test of their cohesion and resolve.
