{"id":223359,"date":"2025-06-29T06:59:08","date_gmt":"2025-06-29T06:59:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/223359\/"},"modified":"2025-06-29T06:59:08","modified_gmt":"2025-06-29T06:59:08","slug":"the-lions-test-xv-after-first-two-games-pollock-mccarthy-force-their-way-in","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/223359\/","title":{"rendered":"The Lions test XV After first two games \u2013 Pollock & McCarthy force their way in"},"content":{"rendered":"

Two games in, and the selection picture is already sharpening for Andy Farrell\u2019s British & Irish Lions.<\/strong><\/p>\n

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After a frustrating loss to a clinical Argentina side in Dublin, the Lions roared back with a 54-7 demolition of the Western Force in Perth. While some big names have yet to feature due to injury or availability, several players have already planted their flags in the Test ground.<\/p>\n

With all eyes turning toward the looming Wallabies series, here\u2019s the\u00a0form XV based on performances so far<\/strong>\u00a0\u2014 plus a few headaches Farrell could do without.<\/p>\n

1. Ellis Genge \u2013 9\/10 vs Argentina<\/strong><\/p>\n

Set the tone early in Dublin with a ferocious shift against Joel Sclavi. Dominant at the scrum, aggressive in the loose, and carried like a man on a mission. No one has come close to dislodging him since.<\/p>\n

2. Dan Sheehan \u2013 7\/10 vs Western Force<\/strong><\/p>\n

Scored within two minutes and never looked back. Impeccable at the line-out and made his usual nuisances in open play. Quietly nailing down the No.2 jersey.<\/p>\n

3. Will Stuart \u2013 N\/A<\/strong><\/p>\n

With Tadhg Furlong misfiring and Bealham steady but unspectacular, Stuart\u2019s stock rises just by association. Could be parachuted in to bring some ballast and bite.<\/p>\n

4. Maro Itoje (C) \u2013 5\/10 vs Argentina<\/strong><\/p>\n

Didn\u2019t hit his world-class heights in Dublin but was still industrious. With so much leadership weight on his shoulders, Farrell won\u2019t blink \u2013 Itoje is the captain and Test lock-in.<\/p>\n

5. Joe McCarthy \u2013 9\/10 vs Western Force<\/strong><\/p>\n

The tour\u2019s breakout star so far. Brought physicality, line-out presence and serious intent. Looked like a Test Lion already. One more big performance and the jersey is his.<\/p>\n

6. Tom Curry \u2013 5.5\/10 vs Argentina<\/strong><\/p>\n

Busy, yes. Game-changing, no. Curry did the work but lacked the spark that makes him a world-class flanker. Still ahead of the pack, but the chasing herd is gaining.<\/p>\n

7. Henry Pollock \u2013 8\/10 vs Western Force<\/strong><\/p>\n

The teenage tyro is causing selection chaos. Two moments of magic, defensive doggedness, and all the energy of a Red Bull factory. Yellow card and chaos came too \u2014 but what a prospect.<\/p>\n

8. Ben Earl \u2013 5\/10 vs Argentina<\/strong><\/p>\n

Top carrier in Dublin, but without the Test-level impact you expect from an international No.8. Still favourite, but far from nailed-on. Needs to find the fire.<\/p>\n

CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

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