Garry Ringrose ruled out as Lions welcome trio for Final Test

The British and Irish Lions have been boosted by the return of Joe McCarthy, Sione Tuipulotu, and Mack Hansen ahead of the third and final Test against Australia in Sydney.

However, centre Garry Ringrose has been ruled out due to concussion protocols and will miss the entire Test series.

The Lions clinched the series with a dramatic 29-26 win over the Wallabies in Melbourne last Saturday, and now aim to complete a 3-0 whitewash—something not achieved by the Lions since 1974. The return of McCarthy (foot), Tuipulotu (hamstring), and Hansen (foot) gives head coach Andy Farrell more selection options ahead of Saturday’s showdown.

All three players participated in Tuesday’s training session and are now fully available for the Sydney Test.

Meanwhile, Ringrose has been ruled out after failing to meet the 12-day minimum stand-down period required under concussion protocols. The Ireland international had self-reported symptoms just before the second Test and was subsequently withdrawn from the lineup.

Lions attack coach Andrew Goodman described Ringrose’s absence as heartbreaking.

“Garry was playing some amazing rugby throughout this tour. It’s been a dream of his for so long to represent the Lions and he’s managed to do that, but he wanted to be a Test-match Lion, so it’s been devastating for him".

Despite his disappointment, Ringrose has remained active within the squad, supporting preparations and helping teammates throughout the week.

The Lions will now aim to finish the series in dominant fashion at Accor Stadium in Sydney, while Australia hope to salvage pride and avoid a 3-0 series defeat on home soil.