**British and Irish Lions Face Combined Australia-New Zealand Side in Final Warm-Up Before Test Series**
The British and Irish Lions are set to lock horns with a star-studded Australia and New Zealand Invitational XV today, marking their final outing before the highly anticipated Test series against the Wallabies kicks off next weekend. The encounter, widely tipped to be played at Test match intensity, offers both sides a crucial opportunity to fine-tune their preparations and provide selectors with last-minute insights.
The match, which gets underway at 11am UK time, will only be available to watch live on Sky Sports. For fans eager to follow developments in real time, numerous platforms are offering live updates throughout the contest.
Wales captain Jac Morgan has been named in the starting line-up for the Lions, a selection that is being closely watched as he vies to make the coveted No. 7 Test jersey his own. Morgan will join forces with a formidable roster including Hugo Keenan, Mack Hansen, Huw Jones, Sione Tuipulotu, and Henry Pollock—each eager to make a compelling run for inclusion in next week’s starting Test side.
This fixture presents a unique challenge for the Lions, as their opponents feature a blend of top-tier players from across the Tasman Sea. The AUNZ XV’s line-up boasts talents such as Shannon Frizell, Ngani Laumape, David Havili, and Marika Koroibete, lending considerable firepower despite the relatively limited time these individuals have spent playing as a unit. The experiment of bringing together such quality test-calibre players—even if just for a single match—is sure to offer a stern examination for the Lions’ preparation.
For Lions head coach and selectors, today’s performance will be pivotal in clarifying the pecking order for key positions ahead of battling Australia. Notably, standouts such as Keenan at full-back and van der Merwe on the wing will be aiming to translate their scintillating domestic and international form onto this distinctive stage. Meanwhile, the half-back pairing of Fin Smith and Ben White will be under scrutiny for their orchestration of attacks and game management.
On the opposite side, AUNZ XV’s Shaun Stevenson and AJ Lam, combining in the backline with heavy-hitters Laumape and Havili, are set to test the Lions’ defensive organisation. In the forwards, powerful options such as Frizell and Hoskins Sotutu provide the muscle and mobility required to pose serious questions at the breakdown and in open play. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto will captain the invitational side from the second row, adding leadership and experience to the pack.
The benches for each side also reflect depth and talent. For the Lions, replacements include internationally renowned names like Owen Farrell, Marcus Smith, and Josh van der Flier—each capable of making a substantial impact. Their AUNZ counterparts will have Kurt Eklund, Jock Campbell, and rising star Kalani Thomas at their disposal, underlining the calibre of talent on show for this high-profile fixture.
While the result may have little bearing on official records, there is an unmistakable sense that both coaches are treating this match as much more than a friendly. For the Lions, it is a last dress rehearsal and an opportunity to build cohesion and momentum. For the AUNZ XV, it is a chance to claim a notable scalp and provide their players with invaluable experience against one of the world’s most iconic touring sides.
As anticipation builds ahead of the Test series proper, all eyes will be on individual and collective performances across the pitch. Will Jac Morgan cement his place, and can the Lions find the right blend of structure and flair? Equally, will the newly-assembled AUNZ team rise to the occasion and disrupt British and Irish preparations?
Ultimately, fans on both sides of the globe will be tuning in with eager anticipation as the countdown to the first Test continues. Regardless of the outcome, today’s clash is certain to provide drama, intrigue, and crucial pointers for what lies ahead on this enthralling rugby tour.