British & Irish Lions Face Crucial Decision as Tommy Freeman's Fitness Hangs in the Balance for Decisive Third Test

Tommy Freeman's back injury puts his participation in the third Test against Australia in doubt, forcing the Lions to consider lineup changes.

Sydney, Australia - The British & Irish Lions are on the brink of a historic clean sweep in their Test series against Australia, but a last-minute injury concern could disrupt their plans. Winger Tommy Freeman, who started the first two Tests, is currently 'touch and go' for the decisive third match due to a back issue.

Freeman, 24, missed the crucial captain's run at the Accor Stadium on Friday, casting doubt over his availability. The England international's potential absence would necessitate a reshuffle in the Lions' backline. Mack Hansen is the most straightforward replacement on the right wing, but his own fitness is questionable after a recent foot injury.

In preparation for various scenarios, the Lions have been experimenting with Huw Jones on the wing and Owen Farrell in the center. James Lowe, previously dropped from the squad, could also make a return to bolster the team's options.

Despite securing the series with a nail-biting 29-26 victory in Melbourne, the Lions are determined to achieve a 3-0 series sweep—a feat not accomplished since 1927. Forwards coach John Dalziel emphasized the team's focus on finishing the tour unbeaten: "The job isn't done in any shape or form. There's only one way that we want this to end, and that's to go unbeaten and try to win 3-0."

The third Test is set to take place at the Accor Stadium in Sydney on Saturday, August 2, with kickoff at 11:00 BST. Fans can follow live text commentary on the BBC Sport website and app, with post-match analysis available on BBC iPlayer, Radio 5 Live, and the Rugby Union Weekly podcast.

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