British and Irish Lions vs AUNZ Invitational XV: Ultimate Guide to the Clash
Get the full scoop on the British and Irish Lions vs AUNZ Invitational XV match, including kick-off time, how to watch, and team lineups.

When and Where
Date: Saturday, July 12, 2025 Time: 8 p.m. AEST (11 a.m. BST) Venue: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide Match Official: Andrea Piardi
How to Watch
- UK: Sky Sports
- Australia: Stan Sport
- Radio: TalkSport (UK), BBC Radio Wales (Welsh commentary)
- Online: ESPN's live blog and extensive coverage
Team Lineups
British and Irish Lions
- Captain: Tadhg Beirne
- Key Players: Owen Farrell (substitute), Mack Hansen, Henry Pollock
- Coach: Andy Farrell
AUNZ Invitational XV
- Co-Captains: Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, David Havili
- Key Players: Shannon Frizell, Pete Samu, Hoskins Sotutu
- Coach: Les Kiss and Ian Foster
Match Preview
The British and Irish Lions are on a roll with four consecutive wins in Australia. However, the AUNZ Invitational XV, coached by Les Kiss and Ian Foster, presents a formidable challenge. Despite the absence of Richie Mo'unga due to a broken hand, the AUNZ squad boasts 17 internationally capped players and a powerful back row.
Owen Farrell, who hasn't played a test since 2023, has been named among the substitutes for the Lions. Tadhg Beirne will captain the Lions for the second time, with Maro Itoje rested. Meanwhile, Tane Edmed gets a final chance to impress Joe Schmidt and potentially secure a spot in the Wallabies squad for the first Test in Brisbane.
Key Matchups
- Back Row Battle: Shannon Frizell vs Henry Pollock
- Fly-Half Showdown: Tane Edmed vs Marcus Smith