Farrell could have dismissed out of hand a return to the international stage, given the experience he endured during the 2023 World Cup including the furore that accompanied his red card for a high tackle on Taine Basham in the warm-up game against Wales.

Owen Farrell is set to join the British and Irish Lions squad in Australia, sources have told ESPN. Englishman Farrell will join the camp after utility back Elliot Daly sustained an arm injury in Wednesday's 52-12 win over the Queensland Reds in Brisbane. He was sent for an x-ray after the match.

British & Irish Lions coach Andy Farrell was happy with how his team settled to their task after conceding two early scores as they ran in eight tries to beat the Queensland Reds 52-12 in Brisbane on Wednesday.