How Ellis Genge reacted to being dropped for the second Lions Test

Andrew Porter has spoken about Ellis Genge’s reaction to being dropped to the bench for the second Test of the British & Irish Lions series against Australia in Melbourne, describing the England prop’s response as immediate and supportive.

Despite being one of the standout Lions on tour, the decision was taken to start Porter with the hard carrying Genge set to be sprung from the bench later in the Test.

Porter, who replaces Genge in the starting XV, said the Bristolian was the first to congratulate him following Thursday’s team announcement.

“He was the first one,” said Porter. “It’s been said so many times but you come into this squad with perceptions of different players. You’re so used to playing against them in the Champions Cup or Six Nations or wherever but your perceptions are dashed pretty much the minute you step in the door.”

The pair have become close during the tour, sharing a room and spending time together as part of the so-called “prop club”.

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“Me and Ellis were rooming together as well, so I got to know him better,” Porter continued. “He’s an incredible guy, an incredible player, and it’s been great to build a friendship as well as learn from him. He’s one of the best in the business so it’s great being able to become closer as mates and learn from each other along the way.”

Genge, who started in the first Test win in Brisbane, was also the one to present Porter with his Lions cap last week.

“Yeah, he was the first one to congratulate me yesterday and sure he handed out my cap to me last week instead of my dad. He’s the dad of the squad. He’s a great fellah and he’s a great player as well.”

Porter starts this Saturday’s second Test at loosehead in a new-look front row alongside Leinster teammates Dan Sheehan and Tadhg Furlong. His elevation is part of a broader reshuffle that also sees Huw Jones maintain his spot the backline following a late withdrawal of Garry Ringrose due to a recurrence of concussion symptoms.

Ringrose, who had returned to action against the First Nations and Pasifika XV earlier in the week, informed head coach Andy Farrell during Thursday training that he was not feeling right and subsequently ruled himself out of contention for the Test.

“I actually only heard that before coming here (to speak to the media) that he actually withdrawn himself and that he wasn’t pulled aside by a coach,” said Porter. “It’s incredibly disappointing for Garry but it just goes to show the character and the player that he is to pull himself aside.

“I think that’s an incredibly hard thing to do – and given the magnitude of the game – but it’s testament to the player and person he is to be able to put the team first.”

Ringrose had initially suffered symptoms during the match against the Brumbies two weeks ago and sat out the first Test as a result. Despite returning midweek, he made the selfless decision to remove himself from what would have been his first Lions Test start.

“In that sense if he’s not right, he’s not right and he’s looking to let someone who’s fit and able to come into the squad and do the job,” Porter said.

The Lions will start Saturday’s match with nine Irish internationals in the XV (a record for a Lions Test) as they aim to wrap up the three-match series with a second win. Porter, making his first Lions Test start, said he was eager to take the opportunity.

“Hearing my name in the starting line-up for this week is another dream ticked off again,” he said. “I’m just incredibly excited for the opportunity to go out there and play for this team and play with these lads who we’ve created such great connection with over the last few weeks.”