Australia v British and Irish Lions: Team news will boost tourists, says Ugo Monye

The British and Irish Lions will have even “greater confidence” of beating Australia in the first Test after seeing the Wallabies’ under-strength line-up, says Ugo Monye.

The tourists were favourites to win this summer’s three-match series, as they did on their last visit Down Under in 2013, but former Lions wing Monye says Andy Farrell’s side will be boosted by some notable absentees in the Australia XV.

Australia head coach Joe Schmidt has named a team without experienced lock Will Skelton and powerful back row Rob Valetini, who both have calf injuries, for the opening Test in Brisbane.

“Without Skelton and Valetini, Australia are underpowered and it takes away some of their super strengths,” Monye, who toured South Africa with the Lions in 2009, told BBC Rugby Union Weekly.

“The Lions were favourites before we even saw their squad.

“Now we have seen their team and the Australian team, there is a greater sense of confidence.”

The hosts have also handed rookie fly-half Tom Lynagh, the son of Wallaby great Michael, a first Test start in the absence of regular number 10 Noah Lolesio.

The Lions, meanwhile, have named a formidable line-up of Test stars, which includes a powerful back row and an all-Scotland midfield.

Tom Curry has been selected at open-side flanker in the most hotly contested position, after fending off fierce competition from Jac Morgan and former world player of the player Josh van der Flier.

Monye added: “It has gone to Tom Curry and I’m thrilled for him and everyone that has been selected.

“Jac Morgan is probably the one out of everyone not selected to have every reason to be slightly miffed.

“Morgan has been superb and then you also have a former world player of the year with loads of experience.

“Anyone who plays at seven is going to do a brilliant job, as you would expect on a Lions tour because you are dealing with the best of the best.