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2w ago

Scrappy Lions, Poised Springboks and a Last-Gasp Wallabies Win Set Stage for Tests

Final warm-up fixtures have exposed handling issues in the Lions camp, underscored South Africa’s favorite status ahead of their Test with Italy, fueled debates over Australia’s readiness after a last-minute win against Fiji.

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Overview

  • The British & Irish Lions labored to a 21-10 victory over an under-strength NSW Waratahs in Sydney, with coach Andy Farrell warning that numerous handling errors and turnovers must be fixed before the first Test on July 19.
  • Scotland centre Huw Jones crossed twice and scrum-half Alex Mitchell added a 55th-minute try after Henry Pollock was ruled out pre-kickoff with a tight calf, forcing Tadhg Beirne to shift to flanker and Scott Cummings into the second row.
  • World champions Springboks head to Pretoria as heavy favorites for Saturday’s Test against Italy after a 54-7 rout of the Barbarians, boasting 16 wins in their last 18 matches against top-tier opposition.
  • Italy arrive in South Africa on the back of a joint-best three Tier One wins in 2024 and a Six Nations victory over Wales, aiming to build on their improving form against a dominant Springboks side.
  • Australia edged Fiji 21-18 in Newcastle thanks to skipper Harry Wilson’s converted try in the final minute, but missed opportunities and playmaker Noah Lolesio’s injury have intensified selection debates ahead of the Lions series.