Tadhg Furlong has played in all six Tests on his two previous Lions tours Tadhg Furlong pronounced himself ready for the challenges of a third Lions tour before Saturdayâs first game on Australian soil against Western Force in Perth. The 32 year-old is a veteran of the past two tours to New Zealand in 2017, which ended in a draw, and South Africa four years ago, when the Lions lost. The Leinster prop, however, was a stalwart of both series playing in all six Tests and heâd like to extend that run Down Under. "Would it be cool to say that I played in all three again? "Yeah, it would. Is it something that motivates me at the minute? No. "I think obviously after the result last weekend, we're looking straight ahead for this Saturday, so it's just about trying to get my best out on to the pitch and trying to get results with the lads,â explained Furlong. Not so long ago there were doubts Furlong would make the squad. A calf strain was the latest in a long line of injuries that kept him sidelined for most of last season, missing Leinsterâs URC win a couple of weeks ago. "They're all short-term injuries, and you're always trying to get back for this game or that game. "It's more a feeling of 'would you get picked, have you done enough'?" Furlong will pack down in the front row against Western Force alongside his Leinster team-mate and Saturday's Lions captain Dan Sheehan. "Knowing Dan, he doesn't overthink it a whole lot, and he always plays well, and I think he has the respect of the group. "I'm delighted for him as a friend and a team-mate. "He was a big old hooker and I remember him coming into a few scrum sessions. "It's hard to find your slot, what's comfortable, what works for you. "Then it just exploded for him. I'm not sure at what point, but when he came onto the scene, he came onto the scene quick."
Furlong ready to roar for Lions on third tour
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"Tadhg Furlong Prepares for Third Lions Tour Ahead of Match Against Western Force"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
Tadhg Furlong, the experienced prop forward from Leinster, is gearing up for his third British and Irish Lions tour as they prepare to face Western Force in Perth. At 32 years old, Furlong has previously participated in both the 2017 tour to New Zealand, which concluded in a draw, and the 2021 tour to South Africa, where the Lions faced defeat. Having played in all six Tests during his previous tours, Furlong has a strong desire to maintain this streak. However, he emphasizes that while it would be an achievement to play in all three tours, his primary focus is on the immediate challenge ahead. Following a disappointing result the previous weekend, he is determined to contribute positively to the team and secure favorable outcomes in the upcoming matches.
Furlong's journey to this tour was not without its obstacles, as he faced a series of injuries that raised doubts about his selection for the squad. A recent calf strain kept him out for a significant portion of the last season, including missing out on Leinster's recent URC victory. Despite these challenges, Furlong's mindset remains focused on proving his readiness and capability to perform on the field. He is set to play alongside his Leinster teammate, Dan Sheehan, who has been named captain for the match against Western Force. Furlong speaks highly of Sheehan, recognizing his talent and the respect he commands within the team. Their partnership in the front row will be crucial as they aim to deliver a strong performance in this opening match of the tour, marking an important step in their quest for success in Australia.
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