SYDNEY — According to reports from Australia, the British and Irish Lions are expected to encounter a team consisting of indigenous Australian and Pasifika athletes during their upcoming nine-match tour in Australia next year.

Phil Waugh, the chief executive of Rugby Australia, stated in an interview with the Sydney Morning Herald that negotiations are underway to replace the Lions’ previously scheduled match against the Melbourne Rebels Super Rugby team, which has entered voluntary administration.

This game was set to take place in Melbourne on July 22, sandwiched between the Lions’ initial and second tests against the Wallabies. Waugh emphasized that Rugby Australia’s goal involves assembling a lineup featuring indigenous Australian and Pasifika players who are currently competing in Super Rugby.

“The popularity of rugby within Pacific Island communities was a significant factor, along with our strong ties to the Victorian rugby community,” Waugh explained. “Moreover, we are proud of the exceptional talent coming from First Nations heritage.”

He further elaborated, “The challenge was to integrate these concepts to create an extraordinary event in the midst of this significant tour. Ideally, we aim to field Australian-eligible athletes with Pacific and First Nations backgrounds, particularly those who are well-known and can attract substantial attention.”

Waugh mentioned that the Lions wish to compete against a team reflective of Super Rugby’s level of play during this midweek match.

Additionally, the ANZAC XV, which the Lions are set to meet in Adelaide on July 12, could potentially feature prominent New Zealand players currently overseas. However, Waugh noted that France’s touring of New Zealand at that time may limit the availability of top New Zealand players for the match.