Just when you thought the British & Irish Lions tour Down Under couldn`t get more dramatic, another injury strikes, leaving head coach Andy Farrell facing a classic selection headache. The latest casualty is Scotland`s utility back, Blair Kinghorn, who limped off with a knee injury during the warm-up match against the Brumbies.
Kinghorn`s early departure felt ominous, and it has immediate implications for the squad. Already without the versatile Elliot Daly (ruled out earlier) and with Owen Farrell called up (though not a specialist #15), the Lions suddenly look thin at fullback. Hugo Keenan is currently the only recognised, specialist option left standing.
While players like Marcus Smith, Tommy Freeman, and Max Hansen possess the skills to cover the backfield if absolutely necessary, relying solely on these alternatives for a potential Test series against Australia`s potent backline feels like an unnecessary risk. The need for a dedicated fullback is real, and Farrell is undoubtedly already sifting through the possibilities for a potential replacement call-up should Kinghorn`s injury prove serious.
So, who might get the coveted, albeit slightly stressful, call? Let`s `help` Andy Farrell with a look at the contenders:
Potential Candidates to Bolster the Backline
Blair Murray (Wales)
Much like his Welsh compatriots Jack Morgan and Tomos Williams already in the squad, Murray seems tailor-made for the `dominant` style the Lions are looking to impose. A standout player for Wales during the 2025 Six Nations, he brings valuable experience not just at fullback, but across the backline. He`s versatile, in form, and understands what`s required at the highest level. A strong, practical choice.
Freddie Steward (England)
While perhaps no longer the automatic first-choice for England under Steve Borthwick, Steward recently reminded everyone of his capabilities with a well-taken try against Argentina. His aerial skills remain arguably the best in world rugby. Against a Wallabies side featuring threats like Joseph Suaalii, a player who can dominate the high ball could be absolutely crucial. While maybe not the flavour of the month back home, his unique skillset could be indispensable in a tight Test match.
Jamie Osborne (Ireland)
The Leinster man is another versatile backline operator, capable of covering various positions. Crucially, he has the trust of Andy Farrell from their time together with Ireland. His international experience is relatively limited (8 caps), which might count against him. However, nestled within those 8 caps is a victory over the world champions South Africa in Durban, where he started at – you guessed it – fullback. He`s a known quantity to the coach, which could tip the scales.
Darcy Graham (Scotland)
Frankly, Graham`s initial omission from the squad felt like one of the bigger surprises. As one of Scotland`s most electric and prolific finishers, his attacking threat is undeniable. Could he play fullback? Absolutely. Is it his preferred or best position? No. This is the key consideration. Bringing him in would maintain the Scottish contingent following Kinghorn`s potential exit, but the primary need is a specialist #15. It`s a classic case of form vs. positional fit.
Bonus Option: Tom Jordan (Scotland)
The human Swiss Army knife of the backline. Jordan can genuinely cover multiple roles, adding valuable flexibility to the squad. He`s comfortable anywhere with a double-digit number on his back (provided it`s not prop, presumably). Like Graham, however, he`s not a specialist fullback, which is where the most acute need currently lies. He`s an excellent player, but perhaps more of a `break glass in case of multiple emergencies` option.
Andy Farrell has a tough call ahead. The Lions need depth and expertise at fullback, and quickly. The decision will depend not only on injury severity but also on who fits the squad`s style, addresses the specific technical needs of the Test series, and integrates seamlessly into the group. The clock is ticking.
