But that is what has happened, both late in the Six Nations and through Northampton’s exploits in European club rugby. Pollock, Fin Smith, Freeman, and England’s hugely improved scrum work must all be recognised. Farrell has not abandoned his Ireland core. How could he after they beat the All Blacks in New Zealand in 2022 and drew with the Springboks in South Africa in 2024? But the Lions are now firm favourites, and a breakdown of their strengths compared to Australia follows. Dan Sheehan (Ireland), Ronan Kelleher (Ireland), Luke Cowan-Dickie (England). Sheehan was one of the few who really took the fight to the brilliant French during the Six Nations, and the world-class No.2 will be favoured to start against the Wallabies. Kelleher and Cowan-Dickie are mobile and combative.Verdict: Advantage Lions.