British & Irish Lions' Australia Tour Starting XV: Expert Picks and Analysis

ESPN writers weigh in on the British & Irish Lions' starting XV for the Australia tour.

1. Ellis Genge, England (prop) The England man narrowly edges out Andrew Porter. Nicky Smith is also in contention.

2. Dan Sheehan, Ireland (hooker) Had a strong Six Nations and has been scoring in club rugby. Jamie George and others provide competition.

3. Will Stuart, England (prop) The England tight-head has improved significantly over the past year and is closely contested with Tadhg Furlong.

4. Maro Itoje, England (lock) Itoje is a certainty and could potentially captain if Caelan Doris is unavailable.

5. Tadgh Beirne, Ireland (lock) Works well with Itoje, with Ollie Chessum among those challenging for a spot.

6. Tom Curry, England (flanker) An influential player in the Six Nations and a Test Lion for sure.

7. Jac Morgan, Wales (flanker) A standout in a tough Six Nations for Wales, but there are multiple strong candidates.

8. Caelan Doris, Ireland (No. 8) Fit, it's his shirt; if not, others come into contention.

9. Jamison Gibson-Park, Ireland (scrum-half) Still a key player despite Leinster's weekend result.

10. Finn Russell, Scotland (fly-half) The best available fly-half, but Johnny Sexton's influence is yet to be determined.

11. James Lowe, Ireland (winger) In fine form and offers a lot with his kicking game.

12. Bundee Aki, Ireland (centre) Reliable and his ball running poses a threat; Sione Tuipulotu's fitness could change things.

13. Huw Jones, Scotland (centre) Had an outstanding season and edges out Garry Ringrose.

14. Tommy Freeman, England (winger) Performed well in the Six Nations and continues to shine in domestic competitions.

15. Blair Kinghorn, Scotland (fullback) Deserves a chance with his electric pace and combination skills.

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