BRISBANE, Australia — The British and Irish Lions are set to face off against a First Nations team in Melbourne during their nine-game tour of Australia. This tour will feature three tests against the Wallabies coached by Joe Schmidt.
The finalized schedule was unveiled by Rugby Australia, marking 100 days until the commencement of this engaging tour. Among the lineup of matches, the Lions will also take on an AUNZ Invitation XV, which will include players from both Australia and New Zealand. This particular match is scheduled in Adelaide, occurring a week before the first test match in Brisbane on July 19.
The July 22 fixture against the First Nations selection is noteworthy as it brings together Indigenous Australian and Pasifika players. It was added to fill the gap left by the Melbourne Rebels’ exclusion from the Super Rugby competition.
Under the guidance of Andy Farrell, the Lions team is composed of players hailing from Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and England. According to Rugby Australia’s chief executive Phil Waugh, this match against the First Nations lineup “will be a great celebration of those who continue to contribute enormously to the Australian rugby community.”
The British and Irish Lions embark on tours of Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand in a regular 12-year cycle. The 2025 series will commence on June 28 with a match against the Western Force in Perth.