Introduction: New Chapter Begins in Perth
The British and Irish Lions will kick off their Australia 2025 tour with a clash against the Western Force at Optus Stadium in Perth on Saturday, June 28. Leading the charge is Dan Sheehan Lions captain, Ireland’s prolific hooker, who has been named captain for this crucial opener.
Sheehan, widely regarded as one of the top front-row players in world rugby, brings experience and explosiveness to a side brimming with both youth and proven talent. He’s scored 15 tries in 32 caps for Ireland and now aims to set the tone as the Lions begin their campaign.
Five Lions Set for Starting Debut
Alongside Sheehan, four of his Leinster teammates — Garry Ringrose, James Lowe, Joe McCarthy, and Josh van der Flier — will also make their Lions debut in Perth. Another four players will debut off the bench: Ollie Chessum, Huw Jones, Andrew Porter, and Will Stuart.
Henry Pollock, the young Northampton back-rower, earns his first start at number eight after coming off the bench against Argentina last week. Scrum-half Tomos Williams and fly-half Finn Russell round out an exciting backline filled with pace and creative flair.
Backline Ready to Entertain
Russell, making his return after touring South Africa in 2021, has matured into a complete playmaker. Paired with Williams, and backed by a potent backline featuring Ringrose at 13 and Sione Tuipulotu at 12, fans can expect attacking rugby from the outset.
On the wings, Mack Hansen and James Lowe bring pace, intelligence, and try-scoring pedigree. Elliot Daly takes up the full-back role in the absence of Hugo Keenan Dan Sheehan Lions captain.
Versatility Across the Pack
Tadhg Beirne and Tuipulotu are the only two players to start both the Argentina and Western Force fixtures, but both switch positions — Beirne moving from lock to blindside flanker, and Tuipulotu reverting to his preferred inside centre role. Rory Sutherland and Tadhg Furlong complete a powerful front row alongside Sheehan.
The replacements bench includes experienced names like Jack Conan and dynamic backs like Marcus Smith, giving head coach Andy Farrell flexibility as the game unfolds Dan Sheehan Lions captain.
Western Force: A Necessary First Test
The Western Force, widely considered the weakest of the Australian provincial sides, will still provide an important challenge for this fresh Lions squad. For Farrell’s men, it’s not just about winning — it’s about setting the tempo for the tour Dan Sheehan Lions captain.
The Lions’ mission to play expansive, entertaining rugby starts here. With Finn Russell orchestrating and Sheehan’s leadership up front, the Perth showdown offers a compelling glimpse into what fans can expect from the 2025 tour.
Lions Starting XV vs Western Force
- Backs: Daly; Hansen, Ringrose, Tuipulotu, Lowe; Russell, Williams
- Forwards: Schoeman, Sheehan (capt), Furlong; Cummings, McCarthy; Beirne, Van der Flier, Pollock
- Replacements: Kelleher, Porter, Stuart, Chessum, Conan, Mitchell, Jones, M Smith
Read the full official team news and coverage on the BBC Sport Rugby Union.
Conclusion: A Star is Born?
Dan Sheehan has long been known as a force in the front row, but this tour could elevate him to global stardom. Saturday could also mark a turning point for Finn Russell, a player built for big stages. The Lions’ legacy depends on building momentum early — and this Force clash is their first chance to roar Dan Sheehan Lions captain.
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