The British & Irish Lions are gearing up for an electrifying kickoff to their 2025 summer campaign with a highly anticipated exhibition match against Argentina at Dublin's iconic Aviva Stadium this Friday, June 20, at 8 p.m. BST. This fixture not only marks the first outing for the Lions squad ahead of their much-anticipated tour of Australia but also the first meeting between the Lions and Argentina in two decades, rekindling a rivalry last showcased with a thrilling 25-25 draw in Cardiff in 2005.
Head coach Andy Farrell has named a formidable matchday 23 that blends seasoned leadership with fresh talent, signaling a fresh era for the Lions. Saracens and England lock Maro Itoje will captain the side for the very first time, a milestone that Farrell described as "a truly special moment and one that very few players ever get to experience." Itoje's leadership has already been evident during the squad's preparations in Portugal and Dublin, setting the tone for what the 2025 Lions aim to represent.
The starting XV boasts a strong English presence with nine players, complemented by three Irishmen, two Scots, and one Welshman, Jac Morgan. Marcus Smith of Harlequins will start at full-back, showcasing his reliable and dynamic playmaking skills, while Northampton Saints' Fin Smith takes the pivotal fly-half role. The half-back partnership is completed by Alex Mitchell, also from Northampton Saints, promising a blend of creativity and tactical acumen.
In the midfield, the Lions have opted for a powerful centre pairing with Glasgow Warriors' Sione Tuipulotu and Connacht Rugby's Bundee Aki. Tuipulotu, 28, is set to make his British & Irish Lions debut wearing the number 13 jersey after a stellar season that cemented his reputation as one of the global game's premier midfielders. His performances, including multiple Player of the Match awards against top European clubs and his role as Scotland captain during the 2024 Autumn Nations Series, have made him an indispensable asset. Aki complements him perfectly, bringing experience and physicality to the centre.
On the wings, Scotland's Duhan van der Merwe and Northampton Saints' Tommy Freeman offer pace and finishing prowess, rounding out a backline primed to challenge the Argentine defense. The forward pack includes Bristol Bears' Ellis Genge making his Lions debut at loosehead prop, alongside Luke Cowan-Dickie (Sale Sharks) and Finlay Bealham (Connacht Rugby) forming a robust front row. The second row features the newly appointed captain Maro Itoje and Tadhg Beirne from Munster Rugby, both known for their work rate and physicality.
The back row is a blend of youth and experience with Tom Curry (Sale Sharks) at blindside flanker, Jac Morgan (Ospreys) at openside, and Ben Earl (Saracens) anchoring at number eight. This trio promises to bring relentless energy and ball-carrying strength to the contest.
Among the replacements is Glasgow Warriors' Scott Cummings, who is also set to make his Lions debut. Since his professional debut in 2015, Cummings has become an integral part of both his club and Scotland's national team, making 16 appearances in the 2024/25 campaign. His inclusion underscores the depth and versatility of the Lions squad.
Argentina will field a strong side featuring two Bristol Bears players, Pedro Rubiolo and Santiago Grondona, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the matchup. The Pumas, led by captain Julian Montoya, are expected to challenge the Lions fiercely both up front and out wide, ensuring a tough and competitive encounter.
Andy Farrell emphasized the significance of this match as the first chance to showcase what the 2025 Lions stand for. "We know that Argentina will challenge us up front and out wide – so Friday night will be a tough contest, but also a great occasion for all the fans," Farrell said, highlighting the competitive but celebratory nature of the fixture.
Fans in the UK can catch all the live action on Sky Sports Action and Main Event from 7 p.m., with the match also broadcast on Stan Sport in Australia. ESPN will provide live updates and in-depth analysis, ensuring global fans stay connected to this pivotal moment in Lions history.
This match kicks off a packed schedule for the Lions, with fixtures across Australia including clashes against Western Force, Queensland Reds, New South Wales Waratahs, ACT Brumbies, an ANZAC XV, the Wallabies, and a First Nations and Pasifika XV. The three-Test series against Australia promises to be a highlight of the rugby calendar, with the Lions eager to secure only their second series win of the 21st century.
As anticipation builds, the Lions' squad reflects a blend of leadership, fresh talent, and tactical versatility. The debutants, including Tuipulotu, Genge, and Cummings, bring fresh energy and ambition, while veterans like Itoje and Aki provide stability and experience. The Lions' coaching staff and players alike are aware of the challenge posed by Argentina, a team with a proud rugby heritage and physical style of play.
With the historic first Lions match in Ireland and the stakes high for the upcoming Australian tour, this Friday night's clash is set to be a thrilling spectacle. Rugby fans worldwide will be watching closely as the British & Irish Lions embark on what promises to be an unforgettable journey.
