British and Irish Lions reveal their Australian tour schedule – Rugby News
British and Irish Lions have unveiled their schedule for the Australian tour taking place in 2013. The Lions are scheduled to play nine matches during that journey starting from June 1. Australian Rugby Union confirmed on November 28 that the Lions will
travel to Wallabies soil to play nine matches against various sides. The tour will start with the opening clash of Western Force and Lions and a large group of spectators are expected to attend the event.
Talking to reporters on November 28, the ARU managing director and CEO John O'Neill said that the tour will be productive for Australia both in improving its skills and boosting the economy. He argued that with the arrival of more than 8000 spectators, tourism
department will earn a handsome amount. He added that the Lions’ supporters are very passionate about the sport as they displayed during the last tour of team to South Africa. Some 40,000 supporters reached to Springboks soil to back the British and Irish
Lions.
John O'Neill further spoke about the proposed tour and said that, “Four years ago in South Africa there were said to be 40,000 Lions fans that made the trek there to support their team. A Lions Tour is a massive occasion. Behind the Rugby World Cup it is
the most engaging, high-profile and popular event our game can showcase. It is not just about the three Tests. It is about the hype and momentum a tour of six weeks develops.”
He argued that, “More than 8000 Lions supporters came to Australia from the UK and Ireland on official tour packages and many more thousands made their own way here.”
Lions’ team is featured with the best players from England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.
British & Irish Lions Tour Schedule:
Saturday, June 1 v Barbarians (Hong Kong)
Wednesday, June 5 v Western Force
Saturday, June 8 v Queensland Reds
Wednesday, June 12 v Combined NSW-Qld Country
Saturday, June 15 v NSW Waratahs
Tuesday, June 18 v Brumbies
Saturday, June 22 v Wallabies
Tuesday, June 25 v Melbourne Rebels
Saturday, June 29 v Wallabies
Saturday, July 6 v Wallabies
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