The British & Irish Lions are set to take on an invitational Australia and New Zealand side in a high-profile clash this July, with several former All Blacks based in Japan expected to feature. Rugby officials are confident that top players from Japanese club rugby, including Richie Mo’unga, Brodie Retallick, Sam Cane, and Aaron Smith who all played in the 2017 Lions series will be available for selection.
The game marks the first time since 1989 that the Lions will face a combined Australia-New Zealand team, and organizers are eager to make it a major spectacle. Ian Foster, former All Blacks head coach, has been appointed to lead the side, a move seen as crucial in attracting star talent. The fixture, set to be held in Adelaide, has been described as an opportunity to showcase some of the best rugby talent from both nations.
However, players who have represented Australia or New Zealand but later switched nationalities will not be considered. This decision rules out Israel Folau, who played for the Wallabies during the 2013 Lions series but later switched allegiance to Tonga. Folau, currently playing in Japan, had expressed interest in taking part but was informed that his previous commitment to Tonga makes him ineligible. The exclusion also applies to Charles Piutau, another former All Black who later represented Tonga.
Folau, who was dismissed by Rugby Australia in 2019 following controversial social media posts, reacted with frustration to the decision, claiming he had received indirect encouragement to express his interest.
Australia’s national team, the Wallabies, has been undergoing a revival under Joe Schmidt, securing victories over England and Wales in the autumn. However, Schmidt is set to step down after the Lions series, prompting speculation over his successor. While Stuart Lancaster has been linked with the role, indications suggest that the leading candidate is Les Kiss. Officials have emphasized the importance of continuity in the national setup, aiming to build on recent improvements rather than starting from scratch.
In addition to discussions about the upcoming fixture and Wallabies coaching changes, rugby governance has also been a topic of debate. The Rugby Football Union’s chief executive has recently addressed concerns following a vote of no confidence at a Special General Meeting. The vote stemmed from controversy over a substantial financial bonus, which raised questions among grassroots members. Despite the challenge, leadership remains committed to reforms aimed at strengthening communication, governance, and support for local clubs.
The letter sent to RFU members acknowledged the difficulties faced in recent months, highlighting a commitment to moving forward with changes that have been long in discussion. Leadership figures have pledged to push ahead with improvements and respond to the concerns raised within the rugby community.
The upcoming Lions clash and broader rugby developments reflect a period of transition for the sport, with teams and governing bodies alike navigating significant changes both on and off the field.
