Stephen Donald and Jeff Wilson weigh in on the Wallabies’ chances against the British & Irish Lions this year ahead of Andy Farrell’s squad announcement on Thursday.

The Lions’ tour to Australia features three Tests against the Wallabies in Brisbane (19 July), Melbourne (26 July) and Sydney (2 August).

Speaking on Sky Sport NZ’s The Breakdown, Donald backed Australia to win the 2025 series, citing their athleticism and growing depth under head coach Joe Schmidt.

“If they can play at tempo and keep the ball alive, I don’t think the Lions can go with them,” the former All Blacks playmaker said. “Their tight five will hold at set piece and they’ve got serious depth in the loose forwards and midfield.”

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Donald also pointed to emerging Wallabies from the Force. “Historically, they haven’t contributed much, but now you’ve got guys like Harry Potter, Carlo Tizzano, Ben Donaldson… Add them to the Reds, Brumbies and Waratahs, and I think they win the series.”

Fellow ex-All Blacks star Wilson, however, dismissed Donald’s optimism. “The Lions are four international squads in one – they should never lose a series,” he said.

While acknowledging that the Lions will be “well prepared and well coached”, Wilson insisted the battle up front will decide the outcome. 

“You didn’t mention one tight five player. That’s where it’ll be won. I don’t see a Wallaby front five that can go three Tests in a row,” he said.

Wilson conceded that the Wallabies could snatch the opener in Brisbane if they played smart. “They might steal one if they go with a 6-2 bench. 

“But unless they find serious power in jerseys 1-5 and 16-20, they won’t match a Lions pack that’s going to be a beast.”

Photo: @lionsofficial/Twitter