Farrell believes 'mature' Joe McCarthy can lead Lions' challenge

McCarthy, 24, will partner Lions captain Maro Itoje in the second row for Saturday’s first Test against the Wallabies after the head coach unveiled his starting line-up on Thursday.

Thu, 17 Jul, 2025 - 12:21

Simon Lewis, Brisbane

Andy Farrell wants the 2025 British & Irish Lions to “walk forward to the challenge” facing them in this Test series with Australia and he believes his young Ireland lock Joe McCarthy is the ideal character to show the way.

McCarthy, 24, will partner Lions captain Maro Itoje in the second row for Saturday’s first Test against the Wallabies after the head coach unveiled his starting line-up on Thursday.