Tommy Freeman believes being allowed to wander off his wing in search of the ball has allowed him to thrive during the Qatar Airways British & Irish Lions Tour to Australia 2025.

The 24-year-old’s form Down Under has earned him a place on the right wing in the Lions’ first Test against the Wallabies at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium, the same venue where he made his England debut three years ago.

Freeman’s international career has truly taken off in recent months, with the Northampton Saints flyer scoring a try in every match for England during this year’s Six Nations.

He then continued his phenomenal scoring form with his club in the remainder of the domestic season, thus earning his place on the plane to Australia with the Lions squad.

Freeman, who has also played at outside centre in his career, said on his licence to roam: “That's something Andy [Farrell] goes after us for as wingers.

“It's not like the olden days with the speed on the wings, and you just kind of stay on your wing.

“For me, I want to find the ball as much as possible and playing in the midfield has probably helped that. I’ve kind of found cues of where I can pop up in spaces, and things like that.

“That's where the game's going at the moment for wingers in general. I kind of just try to focus on myself and make sure I get as many touches as I can in the game and pop up in spaces that aren't expected.

“Mack [Hansen]'s very good at that and very good at linking as well. It's good competition and it's awesome to learn off each other as well and get each other's ideas.”

Freeman’s family will be watching from the stands in Brisbane, although he was informed his mother had broken a foot and had surgery in Adelaide when he rang his parents to inform them about his selection for the first Test.

That would undoubtedly have brought a smile back to her face, although flying everyone out to Australia has hit Freeman in the pocket to the tune of over £12,000.

He said: “My parents came to Australia in 2022. It was very last minute because I didn’t think I was going to play out here, so I told them not to come.

“I eventually got selected and then they flew out. It was last minute so I told them that if I get picked for the Lions I would pay for their business class seats, which has backfired!

“It’s amazing to be able to give back because I am not that pleasant to be around on game day with the nerves. I can be a bit grumpy, so for it all to pay off with moments like this is extra special.”