In a significant development for the British and Irish Lions, England hooker Jamie George has been summoned to join the squad amid an injury scare affecting teammate Luke Cowan-Dickie. The call-up follows Cowan-Dickie’s suspected concussion, which he sustained during the recent match against the AUNZ Invitational XV. This injury could potentially sideline Cowan-Dickie for the much-anticipated first Test against Australia scheduled for the upcoming Saturday in Brisbane.
Cowan-Dickie, who is 32 years old and has earned his stripes on the international rugby stage, showed signs of recovery after the injury, as confirmed by Lions head coach Andy Farrell. “He got up straight away after being assisted from the field, and he’s returned to his usual demeanor,” Farrell remarked, indicating that despite the setback, Cowan-Dickie’s spirit remains intact. Nonetheless, Farrell reflected on how unfortunate the situation is for Cowan-Dickie, and they await further assessments regarding his status as preparations for the Test unfold.
Jamie George, who is recognized for his extensive experience as a two-time Lions series player, was initially excluded from the Lions squad. However, his fortunes have changed rapidly. Currently in Argentina, George was preparing to co-captain England in their second Test next week, but those plans are now obsolete as he prepares to travel to Brisbane to join the Lions. George’s readiness is bolstered by the fact that he previously trained with the Lions in Dublin before their departure for Australia.
In light of George’s new role with the Lions, England head coach Steve Borthwick commented with enthusiasm, expressing delight at George’s selection for the Lions. He stated that while it’s a moment of joy for George, it simultaneously opens doors for replacements Theo Dan and Curtis Langdon. Dan, who has been named in the starting lineup, will be joined by Langdon, who will fill the spot on the bench. “They have all demonstrated immense dedication and have recently impressed during training,” Borthwick noted, expressing collective support for the new lineup.
In a related move, head coach Andy Farrell also announced that centre Garry Ringrose has been ruled out for the first Test against Australia due to a concussion sustained during the Lions’ victory against the ACT Brumbies on Wednesday. Ringrose, who is 30 years old, had been a strong contender for the starting position, particularly following his standout performance in the Brumbies encounter. Farrell reassured that Ringrose would likely make a return for the midweek encounter against the First Nations and Pasifika XV before the second Test in Melbourne on July 26.
Amidst these changes, Scotland’s Huw Jones made a notable impact during the previous match with a stellar performance, which now positions him as a likely starter for the Lions play against Australia. Following his advantageous partnership with Glasgow Warriors and Scotland teammate Sione Tuipulotu, Jones seems primed to secure a place in Farrell’s midfield for the first-Test clash.
To ensure adequate coverage, Farrell also mentioned that Jamie Osborne, an Ireland utility back, has been called up as “training cover” for Scotland’s full-back Kinghorn, demonstrating the squad’s intent on maintaining its competitive edge through these transitions. Following his concussion protocols, Farrell explained that Ringrose experienced a lingering reaction, which ultimately sidelined him for the match against Australia. “You never take these situations lightly. It is regrettable for him and the entire team. Fortunately, he’s maintaining a positive outlook, and we will forge ahead in his absence,” Farrell concluded.
As preparation continues for the Lions’ first Test against the Wallabies, which takes place on August 2 in Sydney, the team remains resolute in adjusting to the evolving circumstances while keeping the spirit of unity alive among the players.
