The Wallabies’ historic series victory over the 2001 British and Irish Lions wasn’t just a triumph for what happened on the pitch. JULIAN LINDEN unpacks the bitter off-field conflict, and how John O’Neill outfoxed the mighty Lions at their own game.
It’s simmered for two decades, but the unresolved feud between ex-Wallaby Justin Harrison and England skipper Martin Johnson could explode after the rivals were paired on Lions coverage.
Western Force coach Simon Cron has explained the dialogue with the Wallabies that made possible Ben Donaldson’s return for the upcoming match against the Lions, following Kurtley Beale’s injury.
Medical marvel Dan Sheehan has been announced as the shock new British & Irish Lions captain, while wonder kid Henry Pollock will make his first start for the touring side.
Injury ruled out what was supposed to be Kurtley Beale’s first shot at renewing his rivalry with the British and Irish Lions, 12 years on, but he is set to get a reprieve, selected to represent his culture.
Joe Schmidt has made a key decision about his Wallabies’ squad for tour matches against the Lions, but remains steadfast in the face of criticism. And Australia’s best attacking halfback shares feelings about cameo role.
They are more “random online messages” than in-your-face abuse two decades on. But there are still British and Irish Lions fans who won’t let Tana Umaga forget his role in a spear tackle controversy.
Lions centre Garry Ringrose is shocked James O’Connor hasn’t been able to make the Wallabies squad, but believes coach Joe Schmidt could yet call on him for the series.
Dan Sheehan is poised to play a major role for the British & Irish Lions against the Wallabies, after returning to his freakish best just 12 months on from an injury which he feared would have ruled him out of the tour.
The British and Irish Lions declared Australia was in danger of breaching its tour agreement not long after arriving down under — find out why and the response they got here.
Kurtley Beale has experienced first hand how dangerous one of the Lions’ main playmakers can be and has identified him as the man to watch. The former Wallaby also reflects on his infamous slip, 12 years on.
The British & Irish Lions just arrived in Australia and tensions are already simmering after Joe Schmidt’s big call about his Wallabies stars ahead of the much-anticipated series opener.
He’s now among the best fullbacks in the game, but two years ago Wallabies star Tom Wright was snubbed for the World Cup. He reveals why he stayed loyal to Australian rugby.
Twelve years in the waiting, the Wallabies will roll their sleeves up and apply the finishing touches to their preparations for the eagerly-awaited series against the British and Irish Lions.
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