Lions to Face Indigenous and Pasifika Team in Melbourne

Rugby Australia announces a new fixture featuring players of First Nations and Pacific Island heritage against the British and Irish Lions.

The British and Irish Lions will play a midweek match against a team of Australian players with First Nations and Pasifika heritage in Melbourne on July 22, 2025.
The fixture replaces the previously scheduled match against the now-defunct Melbourne Rebels, who went into administration due to significant debt.
Rugby Australia aims to celebrate cultural diversity and engage the local rugby community in Melbourne through this special match.
Phil Waugh, Rugby Australia CEO, emphasized the importance of showcasing talented players from these communities and fostering connections with Indigenous rugby supporters.
The Wallabies are also planning a warm-up match against a Pacific Island nation ahead of their Test series against the Lions.