Owen Farrell recently discussed the camaraderie within the British and Irish Lions team, emphasizing that it is the “tightest” group he has experienced across his four tours as a player. Having been called up late to the current tour in Australia due to an injury to Elliot Daly, Farrell is set to captain the Lions for the first time when they play against a First Nations & Pasifika XV in their next midweek fixture.
At 33 years old, Farrell returned to the Lions after a brief hiatus from international rugby, which he took following the 2023 Rugby World Cup to focus on his mental well-being and that of his family. As he integrates into the team, he expressed appreciation for the strong bond formed among the players, attributing this unity to the hard work put in during his absence.
Farrell shared, “I’ve loved it, the lads have all been great, and we’re all pushing along. It’s as tight as I’ve seen a team.” His return, he feels, has been seamless because of the previous efforts from his teammates. Farrell mentioned, “It’s great to be back out there,” and he is eager to contribute positively to the team’s momentum as they prepare for upcoming matches.
When discussing the honour of captaining the Lions, Farrell did not focus on personal accolades but rather on the opportunity to lead a passionate group and enhance their collective performance. He remarked on the significance of being a part of this tour and the excitement of taking the field with such a dedicated squad.
Supporting Farrell’s leadership, defensive coach Simon Easterby noted that the team has greatly benefited from his experience and approach since joining the squad. Easterby stated, “The guys are feeding off him,” highlighting Farrell’s role in fostering a positive team environment.
Overall, Farrell’s leadership appears to inspire not just his team but fans alike, as he aims to guide the Lions into what they hope will be successful matches against their opponents in this much-anticipated series in Australia. The Lions will continue to showcase their resilience, skill, and teamwork, building upon a foundation of strength as they move forward in their campaign.
This tour not only represents the enduring legacy of the Lions but also the promise of forging new connections within the squad, aiming for excellence on and off the field.