Why Australia must pick controversial James O’Connor and Kurtley Beale to take down the Lions – and three other stars who can stun the tourists this summer

Australia faces a formidable challenge in the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour, with a nine-game schedule culminating in three Tests in Brisbane (July 19), Melbourne (July 26), and Sydney (August 2). To counter the Lions’ physicality and depth, the Wallabies must leverage experience, tactical nous, and game-changing flair. James O’Connor and Kurtley Beale, despite their controversial pasts, are critical selections for their proven clutch performance and Lions-specific experience. Alongside them, three emerging stars—Taniela Tupou, Fraser McReight, and Carter Gordon—could stun the tourists and tilt the series in Australia’s favor.

**James O’Connor: The Clutch Veteran**
At 34, James O’Connor’s off-field controversies, notably the 2013 4am fast-food incident with Beale during the Lions series and a 2013 airport altercation, once derailed his career. However, his 2025 Super Rugby form with the Crusaders has been exceptional, highlighted by a match-winning penalty against the Blues. O’Connor’s 80% goalkicking accuracy and versatility across the backline make him invaluable off the bench. His 64 Test caps, including starting at fly-half in the 2013 Lions series, provide critical insight into high-stakes moments. Rugby Australia’s ruling that he qualifies as a local player, not an overseas pick, boosts his case. Former Wallaby Drew Mitchell emphasized O’Connor’s game management and clutch kicking, noting, “His experience coming off the bench… ability to kick a penalty to win it” is vital. In a series where 10 of 30 Tests since 1989 were decided by six points or fewer, O’Connor’s cool head could be decisive.[](https://www.smh.com.au/sport/rugby-union/the-selection-loophole-that-could-help-james-o-connor-stage-an-incredible-wallabies-comeback-20250420-p5lszk.html)

**Kurtley Beale: Resilience and Leadership**
Kurtley Beale, 35, carries baggage from 2013 alcohol-related suspensions and a 4am burger bar incident with O’Connor, plus a 2023 sexual assault allegation (cleared). Yet, his 95 Test caps and 2025 return from an Achilles injury make him a compelling pick. Beale’s slip during a 2013 Lions Test penalty cost Australia victory, but he views it as a resilience-building moment, stating, “You build a lot of resilience… dusting yourself off and going again.” His versatility (full-back, fly-half) and leadership, especially as a potential captain for the Indigenous and Pasifika side against the Lions, add value. Beale’s inclusion in Joe Schmidt’s 2024 squad signals trust in his experience. With the Lions’ kicking game likely to test Australia’s backfield, Beale’s counter-attacking flair could exploit errors.[](https://www.smh.com.au/sport/rugby-union/the-slip-cost-the-wallabies-victory-but-it-may-help-kurtley-beale-meet-the-lions-again-20250416-p5ls9g.html)

**Taniela Tupou: The Wrecking Ball**
Taniela Tupou, a 33-year-old prop, is a cornerstone of Australia’s set-piece. His 53 Test caps and destructive scrummaging, paired with ball-carrying akin to a back-rower, make him a Lions-slaying weapon. Tupou’s 2024 form with the Melbourne Rebels showcased his ability to dominate elite front rows, and his signing for the 2025 tour underscores his importance. The Lions’ 2013 series exposed their scrum vulnerabilities; Tupou’s power could replicate that edge, especially in late-game surges where his 135kg frame wears down opponents.[](https://www.espn.com/rugby/story/_/id/38032592/australia-new-zealand-combined-rugby-team-face-british-irish-lions-2025)

**Fraser McReight: The Breakdown Menace**
Flanker Fraser McReight, 26, combines relentless work rate with breakdown nous. His 24 Test caps include standout 2024 performances, stealing turnovers against top-tier sides. The Lions’ back-row, likely led by players like Tom Curry, thrives on physicality, but McReight’s speed and pilfering (averaging 1.8 turnovers per game) could disrupt their rhythm. His 2025 Super Rugby form with the Reds positions him as a starter, capable of swinging momentum in tight Tests.[](https://www.espn.com/rugby/story/_/id/38032592/australia-new-zealand-combined-rugby-team-face-british-irish-lions-2025)

**Carter Gordon: The X-Factor**
At 24, fly-half Carter Gordon brings audacity to the Wallabies’ attack. His 14 Test caps include dynamic 2024 displays, with offloads and line breaks that stretch defenses. Gordon’s Super Rugby Pacific performances with the Rebels showcased his ability to unlock games, vital against the Lions’ structured defense. As a potential starter or impact sub, Gordon’s creativity could exploit gaps, especially if paired with O’Connor’s steadiness.[](https://www.espn.com/rugby/story/_/id/38032592/australia-new-zealand-combined-rugby-team-face-british-irish-lions-2025)

**Why They’re Essential**
The Lions’ 2013 2-1 series win over Australia highlighted the value of experience and goalkicking in tight contests. O’Connor and Beale, despite past missteps, offer battle-hardened nous and clutch kicking, critical in a series where margins are razor-thin. Tupou’s set-piece dominance, McReight’s breakdown disruption, and Gordon’s flair address the Lions’ strengths—physicality, discipline, and defensive solidity. Coach Joe Schmidt, known for pragmatic selections, can blend these veterans and young guns to maximize Australia’s chances. With only James Slipper and Sam Carter as other 2013 Lions survivors, O’Connor and Beale’s experience is irreplaceable. This quintet, if selected, could stun the Lions and deliver a series upset.