https://www.scmp.com/rss/203560/feed The Lions are a rugby union test team comprising players from the home nations - England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. Lions tours are conducted once every four years and in modern times have focused on Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. The 2013 tour included a game against the Barbarians in Hong Kong and the Lions went on to win the series 2-1 over Australia. en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Agence France-Presse Agence France-Presse Rugby Australia (RA) announced a record surplus Wednesday on the back of the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour, saying it would enable a sustainable future for the sport after years of losses. RA Chief Executive Phil Waugh said the “record operating surplus” of A$70 million (US$50 million) had injected fresh confidence into the 15-man game ahead of hosting next year’s men’s Rugby World Cup. “We are delivering on our promise to reset the game’s finances, restore pride and set a new strategic... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/international-rugby/article/3350957/rugby-australia-eyes-brighter-future-british-irish-lions-tour-brings-cash-windfall?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/international-rugby/article/3350957/rugby-australia-eyes-brighter-future-british-irish-lions-tour-brings-cash-windfall?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:30:51 +0000 Agence France-Presse Agence France-Presse The British and Irish Lions women’s team announced on Wednesday they will play five matches in New Zealand, including three Black Ferns Tests, during their first ever tour in September 2027. The tour was first announced in January 2024 with confirmation of the match schedule and host cities to be confirmed. Whangarei, Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch have now been confirmed to host matches, with the Lions playing tour matches against a Black Ferns XV and an invitational... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/international-rugby/article/3340650/british-and-irish-lions-womens-team-announce-fixture-list-tour-new-zealand-2027?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/international-rugby/article/3340650/british-and-irish-lions-womens-team-announce-fixture-list-tour-new-zealand-2027?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 21 Jan 2026 05:45:08 +0000 The British and Irish Lions will play a combined Australia-New Zealand team in Adelaide in one of nine matches on their 2025 tour of Australia. The Lions will face the Wallabies in Test matches at Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney and play all five Australian Super Rugby clubs. And, for the first time since 1989, the Lions will line up against an Anzac XV. Combining players from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, the Lions tour either Australia, New Zealand or South Africa every four years.... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/international-rugby/article/3228199/british-and-irish-lions-play-anzac-xv-during-3-test-tour-australia-2025?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/international-rugby/article/3228199/british-and-irish-lions-play-anzac-xv-during-3-test-tour-australia-2025?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 19 Jul 2023 06:13:43 +0000 Warren Gatland has ruled out guiding the British & Irish Lions on another tour and said Ireland flanker Sean O’Brien’s criticism of the coaching during the drawn series in New Zealand had played a part in his decision. O’Brien told Irish radio that overtraining before the first and the final tests against the All Blacks had cost the touring Lions the chance to win the series earlier this year. The series was drawn 1-1. The comments were condemned by media pundits and former Lions players, and... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2115708/warren-gatland-says-he-hated-british-irish-lions-tour-new?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2115708/warren-gatland-says-he-hated-british-irish-lions-tour-new?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 17 Oct 2017 07:12:18 +0000 Sonny Bill Williams has appealed against a ruling that would see him miss New Zealand’s Rugby Championship opener against Australia next month for the red card he received during the British & Irish Lions series. The All Blacks centre was sent off for a dangerous shoulder charge on Lions winger Anthony Watson in the second test in Wellington earlier this month and suspended for four matches. New Zealand coach Steve Hansen had hoped Williams could serve the ban by missing the third Lions test,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2104434/new-zealands-sonny-bill-williams-ruled-out-rugby-championship-opener-ban?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2104434/new-zealands-sonny-bill-williams-ruled-out-rugby-championship-opener-ban?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 28 Jul 2017 01:43:55 +0000 New Zealand police say British & Irish Lions prop Kyle Sinckler was arrested for “minor disorder” hours after Saturday’s third test against New Zealand in Auckland but was released without charge. The police said “a male was placed under arrest but was not charged after further inquiries established that the incident did not warrant prosecution.” New Zealand media reports said the incident involving Sinckler happened around 3am on Sunday in central Auckland and the 24-year-old rugby forward was... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2102102/british-irish-lions-prop-kyle-sinckler-arrested-after-third?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2102102/british-irish-lions-prop-kyle-sinckler-arrested-after-third?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 11 Jul 2017 01:43:53 +0000 Owen Farrell slotted a 78th-minute penalty to give the British & Irish Lions a 15-15 draw with the All Blacks and ensure the visitors tied the three-match series 1-1 at Eden Park on Saturday. The match was not without some late drama, however, with referee Romain Poite overturning an All Blacks penalty in the final minute that would have given Beauden Barrett a routine kick at goal from in front. “I don’t know, it has been offside for a long time and it turned into an accidental offside,” All... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2101828/its-cheesy-rugby-was-winner-flat-feeling-pulsating-all-blacks?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2101828/its-cheesy-rugby-was-winner-flat-feeling-pulsating-all-blacks?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 08 Jul 2017 10:33:04 +0000 New Zealand coach Steve Hansen said “cool, calm, collected” Jordie Barrett could handle the pressure-cooker atmosphere of the decisive British & Irish Lions test after gambling on rookies on Thursday. Injuries and Sonny Bill Williams’ suspension have forced Hansen to chance his arm with his line-up for Saturday, giving first test starts to fullback Barrett and inside centre Ngani Laumape. The pair came off the bench for their only other test appearances, and have played just 70 minutes of... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2101495/steve-hansen-backs-cool-calm-collected-rookie-jordie-barrett-against?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2101495/steve-hansen-backs-cool-calm-collected-rookie-jordie-barrett-against?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 06 Jul 2017 04:35:45 +0000 All Blacks selectors have taken a massive gamble by naming fullback Jordie Barrett and centre Ngani Laumape to make their first test starts in Saturday’s decider against the British & Irish Lions. While New Zealand’s forward pack is unchanged from last weekend’s second test, won by the Lions to level the three-test series, the backline is reshaped by three personnel and one positional change. Barrett has been handed a debut in one of the toughest tests the All Blacks have faced in recent years.... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2101448/new-zealand-all-blacks-name-pair-players-make-first-tests-deciding-game?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2101448/new-zealand-all-blacks-name-pair-players-make-first-tests-deciding-game?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 05 Jul 2017 19:00:30 +0000 Alun Wyn Jones is bracing for a furious All Blacks backlash when the British & Irish Lions arrive in Auckland for Saturday’s third Test series decider. But first the Wales lock is allowing himself a moment to savour the Lions’ 24-21 win over a 14-man New Zealand in Wellington. Jones was at the heart of an impressive display by the Lions pack at Westpac Stadium, more than justifying his selection after a lacklustre performance in the opening test had critics calling for his head. The 31-year-old... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2100998/british-irish-lions-alun-wyn-jones-warns-all-blacks-backlash-ahead-third?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2100998/british-irish-lions-alun-wyn-jones-warns-all-blacks-backlash-ahead-third?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 03 Jul 2017 03:43:18 +0000 All Blacks centre Sonny Bill Williams has been suspended for four weeks after being sent off for a dangerous shoulder charge in Saturday’s second test against the British & Irish Lions. Williams became the first All Black in 50 years to be sent off in a rugby test when he was shown a red card in the 25th minute for making contact with the head of Lions winger Anthony Watson. The Lions went on to win 24-21 and to level the three-match series that will be decided in the third test in Auckland this... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2100953/sonny-bill-williams-miss-british-irish-lions-decider-after?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2100953/sonny-bill-williams-miss-british-irish-lions-decider-after?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 02 Jul 2017 11:49:28 +0000 Captain Sam Warburton said Saturday’s second test win over New Zealand was far from mission accomplished for the British & Irish Lions, but warned his players they would need to raise their game again to finish the job next week. The Lions levelled the three-match series at 1-1 with a gripping 24-21 victory over a New Zealand side reduced to 14 men for 55 minutes after centre Sonny Bill Williams was shown a red card for a shoulder charge to the head. The tourists struggled to make the extra man... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2100877/now-british-irish-lions-must-finish-job-says-captain-sam-warburton?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2100877/now-british-irish-lions-must-finish-job-says-captain-sam-warburton?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 01 Jul 2017 11:34:23 +0000 Owen Farrell’s late penalty gave the British & Irish Lions a 24-21 victory over 14-man New Zealand in the second test on Saturday to level up the series at 1-1 ahead of next week’s final clash in Auckland. The All Blacks played 55 minutes with 14 men after Sonny Bill Williams became only the third All Black, and the first on home soil, to be sent off in a test match when he was shown the red card for a shoulder charge on Lions winger Anthony Watson. It was the first win for the Lions over the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2100868/sonny-bill-williams-sent-british-irish-lions-level-all-blacks?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2100868/sonny-bill-williams-sent-british-irish-lions-level-all-blacks?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 01 Jul 2017 09:48:10 +0000 The decision to start British & Irish Lions tour captain Sam Warburton in Saturday’s crucial second test is a reflection of coach Warren Gatland’s desire to attack the breakdown more and match the physicality of the All Blacks. Warburton was not included in the starting side for last week’s 30-15 first test loss at Eden Park, with Sean O’Brien preferred at openside flanker and Peter O’Mahony leading the side from the blindside of the scrum. However, after being targeted in close by the All... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2100598/british-irish-lions-look-sam-warburton-physicality-do-or-die?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2100598/british-irish-lions-look-sam-warburton-physicality-do-or-die?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 29 Jun 2017 09:41:30 +0000 Sam Warburton will captain the British & Irish Lions in Saturday’s must-win second test against New Zealand in Wellington. The Welshman was one of three personnel changes coach Warren Gatland made on Thursday to the starting side that lost the first test 30-15, including calling in Johnny Sexton at fly half. Gatland also picked Maro Itoje to start at lock at the expense of George Kruis, praising his impact off the bench in the first test. Sexton’s inclusion sees Owen Farrell move to inside... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2100483/sam-warburton-back-lead-british-irish-lions-make-or-break-second-all?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2100483/sam-warburton-back-lead-british-irish-lions-make-or-break-second-all?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 29 Jun 2017 02:05:33 +0000 Wellington Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd thought opposing lock Iain Henderson’s tackle on Jordie Barrett deserved an “orange” card, while his British & Irish Lions counterpart Warren Gatland reckoned it warranted just a penalty. Both, however, agreed the incident when Henderson upended Barrett in a midfield ruck in the 65th minute was the major talking point of their 31-31 draw on Tuesday. The Hurricanes were trailing 31-17 at the time and scored tries through Wes Goosen and Vaea Fifita, both of... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2100255/orange-card-lions-hurricanes-coaches-disagree-over-henderson?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2100255/orange-card-lions-hurricanes-coaches-disagree-over-henderson?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 27 Jun 2017 13:04:49 +0000 New Zealand coach Steve Hansen responded testily to Warren Gatland’s claims that his side had deliberately tried to hurt British & Irish Lions scrum half Conor Murray during the first test in Auckland on Saturday. Lions coach Gatland accused the All Blacks of intentionally diving into Murray’s legs to hurt him rather than negate his box kicking, and said he would ask the second test referee Jerome Garces to be vigilant on illegal tactics. The All Blacks beat the Lions 30-15 at Eden Park to take... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2099945/steve-hansen-dismisses-desperate-warren-gatlands-injury-claims-about?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2099945/steve-hansen-dismisses-desperate-warren-gatlands-injury-claims-about?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 26 Jun 2017 03:12:02 +0000 All Blacks centre Sonny Bill Williams has made another heart-warming gesture, this time presenting his All Blacks shorts and socks to a young Lions fan as he left the field after the first test in Auckland. The latest touching moment follows Williams memorably giving away his World Cup winners’ medal to a young English fan after the All Blacks won the world crown at Twickenham two years ago. This time, after the All Blacks beat the Lions 30-15 Saturday in the first test, Williams stripped off... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2099862/there-no-end-sonny-bill-and-his-classy-gestures-williams-gifts-all?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2099862/there-no-end-sonny-bill-and-his-classy-gestures-williams-gifts-all?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 25 Jun 2017 04:37:01 +0000 Rieko Ioane scored two second-half tries as world champions New Zealand stamped their authority with a 30-15 victory in the first test against the British & Irish Lions on Saturday. Both tries were off the back of demolition work by a powerful New Zealand pack as the All Blacks outscored the Lions three tries to two to maintain their 24-year unbeaten record at Eden Park. After a fevered build-up to the game, the All Blacks made their mark early on with a penalty and Codie Taylor’s converted try... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2099826/rieko-ioane-scores-twice-all-blacks-maul-british-irish-lions?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2099826/rieko-ioane-scores-twice-all-blacks-maul-british-irish-lions?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 24 Jun 2017 10:12:30 +0000 New Zealand hooker Dane Coles has resumed training and is almost clear of concussion symptoms but will not play against the British & Irish Lions, coach Steve Hansen said on Saturday. Coles had been named in the All Blacks squad for the series despite battling a succession of injuries this season, including concussion that had kept him out of action since March. “He is clear of most of his symptoms and he is back training,” Hansen said on allblacks.com. “But because he is not fit enough to play... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2099811/new-zealands-dane-coles-cleared-concussion-wont-play-british-irish-lions?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2099811/new-zealands-dane-coles-cleared-concussion-wont-play-british-irish-lions?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 24 Jun 2017 05:52:37 +0000 Ireland flanker Peter O’Mahony will captain the British and Irish Lions in the first test against New Zealand on Saturday, assuming the leadership from tour captain Sam Warburton who starts on the bench. England’s Owen Farrell has recovered from a leg injury to start at fly-half in the team named on Thursday by head coach Warren Gatland. Gatland produced a number of surprises, naming Liam Williams at fullback ahead of Leigh Halfpenny and Wales veteran Alun Wyn Jones at lock ahead of Maro... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2099444/irelands-peter-omahony-captain-british-irish-lions-first-new-zealand?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2099444/irelands-peter-omahony-captain-british-irish-lions-first-new-zealand?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 22 Jun 2017 01:55:34 +0000 The British & Irish Lions routinely sweep their facilities at the team’s hotels for listening devices to prevent team secrets getting out before the test series against New Zealand. A security company that worked with the team on their 2009 tour of South Africa and 2013 tour in Australia carry out the checks, Lions chief executive John Feehan said. “They are experts in electronic surveillance, to ensure that we are not being looked at or listened to,” Feehan told Britain’s Daily Telegraph... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2099317/dont-bug-me-cautious-british-irish-lions-sweep-listening-devices?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2099317/dont-bug-me-cautious-british-irish-lions-sweep-listening-devices?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 21 Jun 2017 05:21:53 +0000 The British & Irish Lions warned they’re “not here for second place” as they set up this weekend’s first test against the All Blacks with a thumping 34-6 win over the Waikato Chiefs on Tuesday. Jack Nowell’s sparkling try double was the highlight as the Lions scored four tries and kept the Chiefs from crossing the line, further building momentum as the opening test looms on Saturday. While the team to play the All Blacks in Auckland is probably already settled, plenty of the Lions’... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2099205/british-irish-lions-fire-warning-all-blacks-after-mauling?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2099205/british-irish-lions-fire-warning-all-blacks-after-mauling?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 20 Jun 2017 10:35:26 +0000 New Zealand captain Kieran Read took part in a first full contact training session since injuring his thumb and All Blacks coaches are confident the back rower will be fit to face the British & Irish Lions at Eden Park on Saturday. Read has not played since breaking the base of his right thumb and undergoing surgery in late April with the fracture healing in a protective cast that was removed just over a week ago. The 31-year-old missed the 78-0 victory against Samoa last week to ensure he had... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2099124/new-zealand-captain-kieran-read-line-face-british-irish-lions?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2099124/new-zealand-captain-kieran-read-line-face-british-irish-lions?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 20 Jun 2017 05:06:40 +0000 Warren Gatland, head coach of the British & Irish Lions, has devalued the jersey by calling up second string Welsh and Scottish players as injury replacements, say former internationals Andy Goode and Jim Hamilton. Kristian Dacey, Cory Hill, Tomas Francis and Gareth Davies have been brought into the Lions squad from the Welsh team playing in New Zealand. Finn Russell and Allan Dell have flown over from Scotland’s tour of Australia. The players have been picked because they are in similar or the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2099014/andy-goode-and-jim-hamilton-say-warren-gatlands-british-irish?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2099014/andy-goode-and-jim-hamilton-say-warren-gatlands-british-irish?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 19 Jun 2017 09:10:17 +0000 Leigh Halfpenny booted the British & Irish Lions to a convincing 32-10 win over the Maori All Blacks on Saturday to regain precious momentum ahead of next week’s first test against New Zealand. After turning 12-10 ahead, a penalty try soon after half-time and try from lock Maro Itoje – when the Maori had a man in the sin-bin – gave the Lions complete control at a wet Rotorua where Halfpenny kicked six penalties and a conversion. The Lions’ confidence-boosting win, after Tuesday’s loss to the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2098792/british-irish-lions-floor-maori-all-blacks-new-zealand-dress-rehearsal?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2098792/british-irish-lions-floor-maori-all-blacks-new-zealand-dress-rehearsal?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 17 Jun 2017 10:11:43 +0000 New Zealand coach Steve Hansen warned not to draw any conclusions about their comprehensive 78-0 thrashing of Samoa as his world champions set their sights on the British & Irish Lions. It was a stunning performance by the All Blacks after a slow start as they pounded Samoa with speed, accuracy, and daring passes. It had British journalists using words such as “imperious” and “ominous” to describe the All Blacks. The All Blacks feasted on 12 tries as they played by “instinct”, according to... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2098783/coach-steve-hansen-plays-down-hype-about-all-blacks-ahead?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2098783/coach-steve-hansen-plays-down-hype-about-all-blacks-ahead?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 17 Jun 2017 06:56:01 +0000 New Zealand ran in 12 tries to demolish Samoa 78-0 in Auckland on Friday and send out a clear warning to the British & Irish Lions ahead of next week’s first test. It was a game set up for the All Blacks to clear out any rust before they front the composite team at Eden Park next weekend, and rust there was. If there weren’t teething problems in their first run of the season the score would have been higher as tries went begging. Tackles were also missed, but New Zealand still kept Samoa... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2098716/new-zealand-crush-samoa-78-0-british-irish-lions-warning?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2098716/new-zealand-crush-samoa-78-0-british-irish-lions-warning?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 16 Jun 2017 11:09:06 +0000 All Blacks coach Steve Hansen took a swipe at the British & Irish Lions on Thursday, saying they had split into two squads and were about to call for reinforcements as the first test looms. The Lions have lost both of their midweek games so far on tour, against the Auckland Blues and Otago Highlanders, and won on the weekends against a Barbarians team and the Canterbury Crusaders. “There is a clear difference between the two teams, the Wednesday team and the Saturday team.” Hansen said. “There... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2098454/steve-hansen-takes-fresh-digs-warren-gatland-and-british-irish?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2098454/steve-hansen-takes-fresh-digs-warren-gatland-and-british-irish?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 15 Jun 2017 06:29:11 +0000 Tour captain Sam Warburton has been relegated to the bench for the British and Irish Lions clash against the Maori All Blacks on Saturday, with Peter O’Mahony taking over in a match the tourists view as a ‘fourth test’. Warburton led the Lions to a disappointing 23-22 loss to the Highlanders midweek and coach Warren Gatland opted instead to hand Ireland flanker O’Mahony the skipper’s armband. “Peter is a proven captain with Munster,” Gatland said. “He never takes a backward step and we believe... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2098399/british-irish-lions-bench-skipper-sam-warburton-maori-all-blacks-clash?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2098399/british-irish-lions-bench-skipper-sam-warburton-maori-all-blacks-clash?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 15 Jun 2017 02:32:12 +0000 The All Blacks are expecting a tough battle against Samoa on Friday as they fine-tune their game ahead of the three-test series against British & Irish Lions. “Everyone is talking about the big battle around the corner but our mentality is the best way to prepare for a battle is to have a battle,” assistant coach Ian Foster said ahead of the clash in Auckland. New Zealand see the Pacific Islanders as a chance to perfect what they learned from watching the Lions in their tour matches, which... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2098267/all-blacks-ready-go-battle-against-samoa-british-irish-lions?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2098267/all-blacks-ready-go-battle-against-samoa-british-irish-lions?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 14 Jun 2017 06:14:46 +0000 Frustrated British & Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland says his players must stop caving under pressure at key moments after “shooting themselves in the foot” in their latest defeat. The tourists threw away a nine-point lead to lose 23-22 to the Otago Highlanders on Tuesday, stalling momentum gained from a gutsy win over the Canterbury Crusaders. Gatland admitted the performance was “a step backwards”, blaming poor discipline that cost 12 penalties and a lack of composure in the dying... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2098217/stop-shooting-ourselves-foot-lions-coach-warren-gatland-rues-mistakes?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2098217/stop-shooting-ourselves-foot-lions-coach-warren-gatland-rues-mistakes?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 14 Jun 2017 01:31:08 +0000 Marty Banks slotted a 74th-minute penalty to give the Otago Highlanders a dramatic 23-22 victory over the British & Irish Lions, handing the tourists their second defeat of the tour in a Dunedin thriller on Tuesday. The Lions scored tries through Jonathan Joseph, Tommy Seymour and captain Sam Warburton but, having led 22-13 in the 53rd minute, were overhauled by a passionate Highlanders side in front of a raucous crowd at the Otago Regional Stadium. All Blacks Waisake Naholo and Liam Coltman... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2098151/british-irish-lions-have-lot-learn-after-highlanders-hand?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2098151/british-irish-lions-have-lot-learn-after-highlanders-hand?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 13 Jun 2017 10:15:02 +0000 The year of my first concrete memory of the British & Irish Lions was 1993. I recall my dad cheering far more fervently than usual at the television and, as a proud Scot, was astonished to see him supporting a side containing England’s Will Carling and Jeremy Guscott! There must be something very special about this team, I thought. I remember plastering my schoolbooks top to toe in Lions heroes including the likes of the Hastings brothers – Gavin and Scott – Scott Gibbs and Scottish prop Paul... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2098101/even-england-villains-will-carling-welcome-scottish-lounge?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2098101/even-england-villains-will-carling-welcome-scottish-lounge?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 13 Jun 2017 07:04:42 +0000 Scottish fullback Stuart Hogg was forced out of the British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand on Tuesday after tests showed he had suffered a bone fracture in his face. Hogg went off clutching his cheek in the first half of the Lions’ win over the Canterbury Crusaders on Saturday after colliding with teammate Conor Murray’s elbow. The 24-year-old said he was “gutted” it had turned out to be a tour-ending injury. “I’m disappointed to be leaving in this way but wish all the squad the best in the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2098059/blow-british-irish-lions-fullback-stuart-hogg-ruled-out-whole-tour-face?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2098059/blow-british-irish-lions-fullback-stuart-hogg-ruled-out-whole-tour-face?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 13 Jun 2017 04:12:46 +0000 The first trio of brothers to be selected in the same All Blacks team – the Barretts – honed their skills in backyard battles which featured arcane rules, tears and privileges of seniority. Fly half Beauden Barrett, lock Scott Barrett and utility back Jordie Barrett spoke in Auckland on Monday about pedigree and sibling rivalry as they prepared for the first test against the British & Irish Lions. Four trios of brothers have played for the All Blacks in the past. The Brownlies – Maurice, Cyril... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2097970/history-making-barrett-brothers-eager-combine-all-blacks?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2097970/history-making-barrett-brothers-eager-combine-all-blacks?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 12 Jun 2017 09:22:00 +0000 Coach Warren Gatland admitted a sense of relief on Saturday as a much-improved British & Irish Lions ended the Canterbury Crusaders’ unbeaten run 12-3 in the best performance of their New Zealand tour. Owen Farrell kicked all the points as the Lions wasted several try-scoring opportunities but impressed in defence and won the aerial battle to hand the Southern Hemisphere’s leading club their first loss of the season. The Lions were lacklustre in their first two tour games – including Wednesday’s... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2097768/relief-owen-farrell-boots-british-irish-lions-much-needed-win?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2097768/relief-owen-farrell-boots-british-irish-lions-much-needed-win?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Jun 2017 11:04:40 +0000 New Zealand coach Steve Hansen is expecting the “kitchen sink” from the British & Irish Lions – but scoffed at Warren Gatland’s suggestion the All Blacks weren’t much better than a Super Rugby team. The Lions suffered a shock 22-16 loss to the Auckland Blues – who are New Zealand’s worst Super Rugby side this season – following an unconvincing victory over the New Zealand Provincial Barbarians in their tour opener. Hansen said his opposite number must be “trying a bit of humour”. “I don’t think... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2097436/you-must-be-joking-lions-coach-gatlands-super-rugby-claim?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2097436/you-must-be-joking-lions-coach-gatlands-super-rugby-claim?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Jun 2017 05:37:54 +0000 The British and Irish Lions won’t panic after losing to the Auckland Blues but understand more than ever the need to stop “monster” centre Sonny Bill Williams, scrum half Rhys Webb said. Williams inspired the Blues to a 22-16 win over the Lions at Eden Park on Wednesday but the tourists were vastly improved on the side that scratched out a 13-7 victory in their opening match against the Provincial Barbarians. Webb said the Lions felt they did enough to beat the Blues but let themselves down by... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2097387/we-need-learn-how-stop-monster-sonny-bill-williams-says-british-irish?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2097387/we-need-learn-how-stop-monster-sonny-bill-williams-says-british-irish?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Jun 2017 01:41:16 +0000 The British & Irish Lions will reach an important crossroads in only the second match of their New Zealand tour on Wednesday when they play the Auckland Blues in their first ever meeting with a Super Rugby side. Unless the extensively changed Lions side can dramatically improve on an inadequate performance by the tourists in their opening match against the Provincial Barbarians, expectations on coach Warren Gatland’s team may plummet, with their plans around selection and preparation for the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2097090/british-and-irish-lions-be-tested-auckland-blues-second-new-zealand-tour?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2097090/british-and-irish-lions-be-tested-auckland-blues-second-new-zealand-tour?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Jun 2017 05:52:28 +0000 Wales hooker Ken Owens will lead an all-new British & Irish Lions side for their second tour match against the Auckland Blues on Wednesday with the tourists looking for a step-up in performance. Coach Warren Gatland announced a completely new side to that which scrambled to a 13-7 tour-opening win against the New Zealand Provincial Barbarians on Saturday. Wales pair Dan Biggar and Rhys Webb will fill the crucial halves roles, with Ireland fly half Johnny Sexton, an unimpressive starter in... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2096934/all-change-british-irish-lions-warren-gatland-names-entirely?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2096934/all-change-british-irish-lions-warren-gatland-names-entirely?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 05 Jun 2017 06:47:51 +0000 The British & Irish Lions were officially welcomed to New Zealand on Sunday, but their thoughts were quickly dragged back to Europe after news of the deadly terror attack in London filtered through. The Lions arrived in New Zealand on Wednesday and scraped to a 13-7 victory over a team made up of semi-professional and amateur players in Whangarei on Saturday before heading north to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for an official welcome ceremony. More than 400 people from the local Ngapuhi tribe... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2096833/british-irish-lions-torn-shreds-new-zealand-pundits-after-tour?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2096833/british-irish-lions-torn-shreds-new-zealand-pundits-after-tour?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 04 Jun 2017 09:17:15 +0000 The British & Irish Lions admitted to having “plenty to work on” after a scrappy New Zealand tour opener where they struggled to a 13-7 win over a New Zealand Provincial Barbarians side on Saturday. Coach Warren Gatland described the performance as “not quite accurate in some really critical moments”. Before a sellout crowd of 20,000 at Toll Stadium in Whangarei, it was the Barbarians, a side of relatively unknown New Zealand provincial players, who set the standard for most of the game. Captain... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2096770/british-irish-lions-admit-plenty-work-tour-opener-serves-stark?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2096770/british-irish-lions-admit-plenty-work-tour-opener-serves-stark?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 03 Jun 2017 10:45:25 +0000 The British & Irish Lions arrived in New Zealand on Wednesday predicting a “cracking” series against the world champion All Blacks and hoping to avoid the controversies that marred their disastrous last tour 12 years ago. Tattooed Maori warriors performed a haka to greet the composite team of elite players from England, Wales, Ireland and Scotland, marking the start of the nearly six-week tour. The players then surprised their hosts by performing a stirring rendition of the Welsh hymn “Calon... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2096320/british-irish-lions-song-ahead-cracking-all-blacks-tests?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2096320/british-irish-lions-song-ahead-cracking-all-blacks-tests?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 31 May 2017 05:14:30 +0000 England playmaker Owen Farrell thinks the British & Irish Lions have a squad capable of taking on any team in the world and head to New Zealand on Monday believing they can beat the All Blacks in the three-test series. The Lions arrive in New Zealand on Wednesday after a stopover in Melbourne and Farrell conceded taking on the world champions in their own back yard was a “tough challenge”. “I don’t think anybody is going out there just to take part,” the 25-year-old said. “Everyone firmly... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2096098/we-believe-we-can-beat-all-blacks-says-british-irish-lions-star?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/fifteens/article/2096098/we-believe-we-can-beat-all-blacks-says-british-irish-lions-star?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 29 May 2017 07:49:39 +0000 Following the massive blow of Billy Vunipola’s withdrawal, Warren Gatland reported the rest of his British & Irish Lions squad was fit or getting there a week out from leaving for New Zealand. A week after leading Saracens to the European club championship, No 8 Vunipola pulled out on Sunday, a day after aggravating a right shoulder injury in the English Premiership semi-finals. He needs surgery. He was replaced by England teammate James Haskell, another first-time Lion. The other injured Lions... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2095306/warren-gatland-billy-vunipola-big-loss-rest-british-irish-lions-are?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2095306/warren-gatland-billy-vunipola-big-loss-rest-british-irish-lions-are?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 23 May 2017 03:28:11 +0000 All Blacks captain Kieran Read is unlikely to play any rugby before the first test against the British and Irish Lions on June 24 as he recovers from a broken thumb. The 31-year-old suffered the injury while playing for the Canterbury Crusaders against South Africa’s Cheetahs on April 29 and had surgery. He was told he would need six weeks to recover, which would put his return date around June 10. A test against Samoa on June 16 at Eden Park was seen as an ideal way for Read to get some match... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2093889/all-blacks-captain-kieran-read-head-british-irish-lions-series-cold?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2093889/all-blacks-captain-kieran-read-head-british-irish-lions-series-cold?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 11 May 2017 03:25:57 +0000 Ben Youngs has withdrawn from the upcoming British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand because of his sister-in-law’s terminal illness, the England scrum-half’s club, Leicester, announced Saturday. The wife of Ben’s older brother Tom, himself a Leicester, England and Lions hooker, has been suffering with cancer for three years. Saturday’s statement from Leicester said “the family has now received the devastating news that the illness is terminal”. Later Saturday, the Lions announced that... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2093290/ben-youngs-pulls-out-british-and-irish-lions-tour-because-family-illness?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2093290/ben-youngs-pulls-out-british-and-irish-lions-tour-because-family-illness?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 07 May 2017 03:51:36 +0000 New Zealand suffered a major blow to their preparations for the upcoming British & Irish Lions series when captain Kieran Read fractured his thumb in Super Rugby action on Saturday and was forced to undergo surgery. The number eight sustained the fracture to the base of his right thumb in Canterbury Crusaders’ 48-21 victory over South Africa’s Cheetahs in Bloemfontein on Saturday night and would be sidelined for around six weeks, the Super Rugby side said. The 31-year-old is expected to lead the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2091833/all-blacks-concern-ahead-british-irish-lions-series-skipper-kieran-read?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2091833/all-blacks-concern-ahead-british-irish-lions-series-skipper-kieran-read?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 30 Apr 2017 04:11:23 +0000 Sam Warburton will captain the British & Irish Lions in New Zealand but there was no place in the 41-man squad for England skipper Dylan Hartley. Wales back-rower Warburton, 28, who skippered the combined side on their victorious 2013 tour of Australia, becomes just the second man after England great Martin Johnson (1997 and 2001) to lead the Lions on two tours. In contrast, New Zealand-born hooker Hartley is the biggest casualty and the third successive England skipper to miss out on Lions... https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2088946/sam-warburton-captain-british-irish-lions-tour-new-zealand?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/rugby/article/2088946/sam-warburton-captain-british-irish-lions-tour-new-zealand?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 19 Apr 2017 13:29:39 +0000