Andy Farrell Calls Up Son Owen to Lions After Daly Injury

The British & Irish Lions have drafted former England captain Owen Farrell into their touring party in Australia after utility back Elliot Daly was ruled out with a fractured forearm sustained during Wednesday’s 52-12 win over the Queensland Reds. Head coach Andy Farrell confirmed the call-up on 3 July, saying the decision adds "experience and leadership" as the squad prepares to face the New South Wales Waratahs in Sydney on Saturday and open a three-Test series against Australia on 19 July.

Farrell, 33, will link up with the squad on Friday for what will be his fourth Lions tour, having previously made 18 appearances across the 2013, 2017 and 2021 campaigns and amassed 112 caps for England. The fly-half or inside-centre last played international rugby at the 2023 World Cup before stepping away for personal reasons and spending an injury-interrupted season with Racing 92 in France.

Last month the playmaker cut short a two-year, €1.6 million contract in Paris to re-join Saracens on a two-year deal, restoring his eligibility for England selection. Daly’s exit leaves the Lions without a versatile back who covered full-back, wing and outside centre, heightening scrutiny of the replacement choice. While several former internationals have questioned the move, Andy Farrell defended selecting his son, citing the need for proven big-match temperament and tactical acumen as the tourists enter the business end of their itinerary.