Brian O’Driscoll’s ‘fireworks’ verdict on Andy Farrell’s 23 for Wallabies opener as Lions legend makes big selection call for final two Tests
British and Irish Lions head coach Andy Farrell and legendary centre Brian O'Driscoll.
British and Irish Lions legend Brian O’Driscoll reckons that there could be “fireworks” from half-back duo Jamison Gibson-Park and Finn Russell on Saturday.
Those two playmakers will line up alongside each other in the opening Test of the three-match series against Australia in Brisbane this weekend.
They have combined well in their tour outings so far and will look to guide the Lions to a victory at Suncorp Stadium.
Contentious calls
The main talking point from Andy Farrell’s selection was the decision to name Tom Curry at openside, despite the exceptional performances of Josh van der Flier and Jac Morgan.
O’Driscoll also felt the centre position has been hotly contested and he predicts that, irrespective of the result and performance, Farrell will make changes for the following two Tests.
“There are always one or two calls where you go, ‘it could have gone there’. The number seven jersey, I think any of the three guys that have been wearing it on tour could have been picked – Tom Curry has gotten the chance,” he told Sky Sports.
“At half-back, Gibson-Park and Finn Russell look like they have fireworks ready to let off.
“The other thing was maybe the Scottish centre pairing. People were wondering who they were going to go with. They’ve gone with units, so it’s understandable, but there will be changes in Tests two and three.
“But it’s a first-up opportunity for this 23 and good luck to them.”
While there will always be consternation about selection, it is that 23 who have been picked by Farrell and have the chance to make Lions history.
The famous invitational side remains a special concept and O’Driscoll revealed why that is the case from a player’s perspective.
‘So unique’
“It’s your opportunity to play with these adversaries that you play against for club and country week in week out,” he said.
“For this seven-week period, you’re best of friends, they’re your ream-mates, you put your body on the line for them. It’s so unique, it’s a throwback to tours that used to last six months.
“Now it’s a seven-week tour and Test rugby is all about organisation, and it’s such a hard thing to get that cohesion in such a short period of time.
“It’s more challenging these days but it’s such a special time for the British and Irish Lions to be able to travel to Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.
“This Test team has a great chance of winning the series.”
