The Unforgettable Folau Carry

Twelve years have passed since George North etched his name into British and Irish Lions folklore with a moment that still brings a smile to fans' faces. It was the 60th minute of the second Test in Melbourne during the 2013 Lions tour. North, a towering winger for Wales, found himself face-to-face with Israel Folau, an equally imposing figure from Australia. With nowhere to go, North did the unthinkable—he scooped up Folau and carried him down the field, using the Australian winger as an improvised battering ram.

A Moment of Brilliance

"A bit silly to be honest," North recalls with a chuckle. "Not my best idea," he adds, but the moment has become one of the most iconic in Lions history. The Lions went on to win the series 2-1, and North's carry became a defining moment of that victory.

The Legacy of the Lions

The British and Irish Lions have a rich history filled with legendary moments. From JPR Williams' drop-goals to Jeremy Guscott's match-winning kicks, the Lions have always been about creating memories. North's carry is now part of that storied legacy.

Reflecting on the Tour

North, now 33 and playing for Provence in the French second division, looks back on the 2013 tour with fondness. "It was probably the best rugby I've ever played," he says. The tour was not just about the matches but also about the camaraderie and the experience of touring Australia.

Looking Ahead

As the Lions prepare for their 2025 tour, North has a prediction: "Controversially, I'm going to go Australia win the first one, Lions win the second, and it goes down to the third and Lions win 2-1." He adds with a laugh, "That's what happened against Australia in 1989, I say."

The Impact of the Lions

North reflects on the honor of playing for the Lions. "That honor you have and the responsibility you have for that jersey certainly kept me fighting hard every day and at my best," he says. The Lions jersey is more than just a uniform; it's a symbol of rugby's rich history and tradition.

Conclusion

George North's carry of Israel Folau is a moment that will forever be remembered in rugby history. It’s a testament to the spirit of the game and the legacy of the British and Irish Lions. As fans look forward to the next tour, they can only hope for more moments of brilliance that will be talked about for years to come.