The Mentorship of Finn Russell

Ben White, the scrum-half for Scotland, recently earned his first start with the British & Irish Lions, a feat he attributes largely to his partnership with fly-half Finn Russell. "The biggest thing I’ve learned from Finn is his calmness," White shared. "His nature makes me feel more relaxed, and it’s something that has definitely helped my mindset in big games."

The Challenge Ahead

White’s inclusion comes at a critical time as the Lions prepare to face the AUNZ Invitational XV in Adelaide. This match is seen as a pivotal moment before the first Test against the Wallabies. Despite not being the first-choice scrum-half, White is focused on his role and the team’s cohesion. "Everybody wants to be in that Test team, but the second you try to do that on your own, you’re being desperate," said team captain Tadhg Beirne.

Historical Context

The Lions have a storied history of midweek victories that have set the tone for their Test matches. One such instance was in 1997 during their tour of South Africa, where a win against the Gauteng Lions re-established momentum and ultimately led to a successful series. "That game was massive," recalled Martin Johnson, the tour captain at the time.

The Stakes in Adelaide

This Saturday’s match against a team of former All Blacks and Wallabies is no less significant. The AUNZ Invitational XV is experienced and formidable, posing a real threat to the Lions’ momentum. "It’s about enjoying the occasion, being free, and showing what you can do," White emphasized.

Conclusion

As the Lions gear up for this crucial encounter, the influence of mentors like Finn Russell and the lessons from past tours will be invaluable. For Ben White, this is not just a game but a dream realized, and a chance to prove his mettle on one of rugby’s biggest stages.