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Five talking points ahead of first Test

Western Mail

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July 19, 2025

THE British and Irish Lions clash with Australia today to launch their eagerly-awaited three-Test series.

Here we look at five talking points heading into the Brisbane opener.

Moment of truth

Since their 28-24 defeat by Argentina in Dublin, the Lions have not been truly tested.

Only in the cauldron of a Test match at Suncorp Stadium will Andy Farrell’s men fully reveal themselves. After six weeks together including training camps, their quality, tactics and identity will finally emerge.

Farrell’s power play

Historically, Australia have been vulnerable upfront and by picking the biggest pack available to him, Farrell has signalled his intention to drive home a Lions advantage.

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