Selection of Props & Hookers

 In this post, I will be assessing the Lions' potential Front row options consisting of Loose Head Props, Hookers, and Tight Head Props. The 2021 tour saw the Lions carry 3 Hookers, and 6 props, which we can assume a similar amount will be taken. Front-row players are essential for the set piece- through their scrum power and technical ability in the lineout. 

Props

In my opinion, there are 5 props nailed to be in the squad, with the additional up for debate. 

First up is Ellis Genge. The Bristol Bears man is an absolute machine standing at 6ft tall, and weighing a whopping 120kg. Genge is known for his power through the tackle, and ball carrying in open play. While featuring in the 2024 Netflix documentary- Six Nations: Full Contact, we can see Genge's mental attributes which have seen him being a crucial part of England's team and one of the first names on the team sheet. Genge has been rewarded with 58 caps for England, scoring 25 tries in the process. He has also featured in World Rugby's 2022 Team of the Year for being the Best Loosehead Prop. 





The next spot is up for debate between Dan Cole and Joe Marler. Both players are known for their ability on the set piece, particularly in scrummaging. Both are experienced players bringing a wealth of knowledge both on the park and off the park. 

Zander Fagerson has to be under consideration for his excellent performances for Glasgow, and Scotland. Fagerson is one of the only props who will consistently play 80 minutes, with many changing after 40-60 minutes. Fagerson was selected for the last Lions tour to South Africa, however, did not manage to make an appearance. Fagerson is set to make his 150th appearance for Glasgow and has made 67 appearances for Scotland scoring 15 times. 

Pierre Schoeman has really put his name into the hat recently, with outstanding performances with Edinburgh and Scotland. The South African-born man has been excellent for Scotland since making his debut in 2021. If Schoeman continues his strong form with Edinburgh his chances of selection are very high. 




The Irish front-row pairing of Andrew Porter and Tadhg Furlong will in my opinion be the two starting props for the Lions. Both have been crucial parts of Ireland back to back Six Nations victories and Leinsters exceptional club form. Both add 258kg to the scrum, but both are technically gifted in their respective position. With strong ball carrying and big tackles these two will cause havoc to the Australian defence. 

Hookers

The hookers pick themselves, with a mix of different styles been called up. 

Firstly Jamie George. England's starting hooker still continues to perform. He excels during lineouts, with inch-perfect throws. George was previously called up to the Lions in 2017, and 2021 making 3 appearances. 

Dan Sheehan in my opinion will be the Lion's starting hooker. Sheehan has an exceptional try scoring record at international level with 10 tries in 27 appearances. He has been crucial to Ireland's recent success, having the skills of a back but the size of a forward. 





The third spot was a tricky choice but probably will be Dewi Lake. Despite being relatively new to the international scene, the Welshman has been solid for Ospreys and at international level. Lake will be there to make up the squad but I don't see him making an appearance unless there have been injuries.





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