Darcy Graham’s Lions Debut Cut Short

Scotland winger Darcy Graham made a dramatic entry onto the British & Irish Lions stage on 22 July 2025 at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium, although his appearance was cut remarkably short. Just 16 minutes into his debut, Graham was forced off with an ankle injury, yet not before leaving his mark by scoring the Lions’ second try in the 11th minute during their tightly contested 24–19 victory over the First Nations & Pasifika XV.

Selected as a late addition by coach Andy Farrell after initially missing out on the squad, Graham had been brought in to provide injury cover and seized his brief opportunity. However, the ankle problem forced him to withdraw, leaving his future on tour uncertain pending medical scans. Visibly emotional as he left the field, Graham was consoled by teammate Finn Russell.

Despite the setback, Farrell praised Graham’s impact, noting that scoring on debut and earning a Lions cap would remain moments to cherish. The Lions, who had already secured victories in warm-up matches against Western Force, Queensland Reds, NSW Waratahs, ACT Brumbies, and a mixed Invitational XV, now shift their focus to the upcoming Test matches in Melbourne and Sydney.

Graham’s early exit has reshuffled the backline and raised concerns about his availability for the Australian Tests.