Owen Farrell's curveball call-up by the British and Irish Lions has been welcomed by his new teammates as the former England captain was praised for his high standards and leadership qualities.

British & Irish Lions coach Andy Farrell said his decision to bring his son Owen to Australia as an injury replacement for Elliot Daly was made as much for his experience of three previous tours as for his playing ability.

British and Irish Lions head coach Andy Farrell has explained his decision to call up his son Owen to the squad in Australia. The former England captain endured an injury-stricken season with Racing 92 and hasn’t played any international rugby since the World Cup in 2023 after opting to step away from Test rugby.