Chris Ashton Envisions Potential All-Scottish Back-Line for British and Irish Lions

Former England international Chris Ashton has suggested that The British and Irish Lions could potentially feature an all-Scottish back-line for their tour of Australia next year. Scottish backs Sione Tuipulotu and Finn Russell are among those considered to be in contention for the Lions squad. The full first-choice back-line from Scotland, comprising Ben White, Finn Russell, Darcy Graham, Sione Tuipulotu, Huw Jones, Duhan van der Merwe, and Blair Kinghorn, is anticipated to be in contention for selection in Andy Farrell’s squad, and potentially the final matchday 23, provided they remain fit. Ashton’s comments were made during a discussion about Lions selection options on the BBC’s Rugby Union Weekly podcast, where he was joined by fellow former England internationals Danny Care and Ugo Monye. Ashton stated, “I like Graham. There’s a potential for a whole Scotland back-line.” Care added, “Jones, he’s so good. If you look at that back-line now, it’s been pretty set now for a couple of years now. Those lads have got 20, 30, 40 caps and 20 of them as a unit. They seem to keep them fit.” Monye offered his perspective, saying, “If you pick Finn [Russell] and I think [Sione] Tuipulotu plays at 12, shouldn’t you be picking Jones? Scotland were cooking last year.” The full discussion is available on the latest Rugby Union Weekly podcast.