One year to go: who will Andy Farrell take on Lions tour of Australia?

There are plenty of probables but the domestic fixture list, especially for French sides, will have a massive influence.

ON THE PLANE? Ireland captain Peter O'Mahony with Lions and Ireland head coach Andy Farrell during the Guinness Six Nations. Pic: Harry Murphy, Sportsfile

Just imagine, for a second, you are Andy Farrell, head coach of the 2025 British & Irish Lions. There is not limitless scope for leisurely reflection, given Ireland’s Test series in South Africa and with his son Owen about to make an emotional farewell to Saracens. 

But last Saturday’s thunderous Champions Cup final is still fresh in the imagination and now is an obvious time to ponder the best available squad to face Australia next year.