Australia say they are willing to host the British and Irish Lions series against South Africa this year; the three-trial series against the Springboks is expected to begin on July 3 but the trip is in jeopardy due to coronavirus pandemic; the Lions last visited Australia in 2013.
The Reuters
Last Updated: 31/01/21 8:27 am
The British and Irish Lions could play South Africa in Australia this year
Australia has offered the British and Irish Lions platform this year against South Africa, which is at risk due to COVID-19 pandemic disease, Australian Rugby chairman Hamish McLennan said on Sunday.
The Lions plan to play eight games in South Africa, including a three-match series against world champions starting July 3 in Cape Town.
Both Britain and South Africa remain firmly in the grip of the virus, however, and Lions officials are expected to decide in February whether to go ahead with the tour or a look give alternatives.
Australia has been very successful in battling the pandemic and in November and December held the Rugby Tournament, renamed the Tri-Country, after Africa South withdraw.
“I spoke to Jurie Roux, Head of South African Rugby, a few weeks ago and offered to host the tournament here, discussing the appalling situation of COVID in the UK and South Africa,” he said. McLennan.
“We have learned through the Tri-Nations (that) that our government can safely bring high performance athletes into the country and quarantine.
1:15 Sky Sports News’ James Cole reports that the Lions of Britain and Ireland are looking at three options for their recorded tour of South Africa.
“Despite all the difficulties, we need to keep the world moving as best we can. So this was a lateral offer and a solution to an issue facing these people.”
MacLennan stated that the offer had been accepted and that there had been communication between Australian Rugby and other stakeholders in the trip. “It would really work because there are so many UK and South African residents and expats living out here, that we could fill stadiums,” he said.
“They may choose to go somewhere else, but the offer is there.”
0:30 Former New Zealand international Grant Fox explains what it means for the host country when the Lions tour.
Australian Rugby would expect to pay expenses but in addition any profits would go to South African Rugby and the Lions.
“We’re not doing this to make money,” McLennan said.
Australian Rugby have yet to confirm their mid-year test series against France but MacLennan felt both rounds could take some flexibility.
“We are very dead for France and for them to come, we are really looking forward to it,” he said.
“When you look at the records, there would be very little overlap.”
The Lions last toured Australia in 2013, winning an exciting 2-1 test series in front of a wholesale crowd, and are expected to return in 2025.