Owen Farrell's Lions Call-Up: A Strategic Masterstroke or Controversial Decision?

Former England scrum-half Danny Care has hailed Owen Farrell's inclusion in the British and Irish Lions tour of Australia as a "masterstroke." Despite Farrell's recent injury struggles and lack of international game time, Care believes his presence will significantly benefit the squad.

Why Farrell?

"Why would you not pick Owen Farrell?" Care questioned on BBC's Rugby Union Weekly podcast. "Whatever position he plays, whatever role he has in the squad, they are only better for having him there."

Care, who has partnered with Farrell in England's half-back line, emphasized Farrell's ability to set high standards both on and off the pitch. "If Owen turns up and delivers standards and a better performance from the Lions, and overall you see a more connected team, then you have to go 'what a masterclass and a masterstroke from the coaches'," he added.

Farrell's Journey

Farrell, 33, has not played international rugby in nearly two years. After a challenging season with Racing 92 in Paris, he recently returned to Saracens. His last game was nearly nine weeks ago, cut short by a concussion. Once he arrives in Australia, Farrell will be the only player in the squad to have gone on four Lions tours, aiming to add to his six Test caps.

Impact on the Team

"Whatever team Owen is in, he makes them better. I have no doubt in whatever shape he is, he will slot in absolutely fine," Care said. "I hope he hits the ground running, and everyone just gets on with it."

The Controversy

However, not everyone is convinced. Former Lions fly-half Dan Biggar, who toured with Farrell in 2017 and 2021, expressed concerns about the selection. "We've been praising Russell all year. He looks like the main man. It feels like this is his moment and you don't know what kind of impact Farrell coming in will have on that dynamic," Biggar wrote in his Daily Mail column.

Stuart Barnes, a Lions tourist in 1993, also questioned the decision, stating in the Times that "on form, the selection is a joke." He wondered if Russell would be hindered by Farrell's presence.

Leadership and Versatility

Brian O'Driscoll, a four-time Lions tourist, believes Farrell's leadership skills will be invaluable. "He could change their game or bring an extra dimension," O'Driscoll said on Off The Ball. "His range of passing is phenomenal."

Conclusion

Farrell's call-up has sparked a mix of praise and skepticism. While some see it as a strategic move to strengthen the Lions, others view it as a controversial decision that could disrupt team dynamics. Only time will tell if this proves to be a masterstroke or a misstep.