The British and Irish Lions sealed an impressive 27-19 victory in the first Test match of their three-game series against Australia in Brisbane.
An instant penalty earnt by Tadhg Beirne was kicked by Finn Russell to give the tourists the early advantage, and Russell was involved again a few minutes later as his long pass found Sione Tuipulotu in space to touch down under the posts. Australia hit back when Max Jorgensen won a high kick to score for the hosts, but the inspirational Tom Curry barged over the line to give the Lions a 17-5 lead at half-time.
The Lions were quickly on top in the second half as Dan Sheehan muscled his way over in the corner. Joseph Suaallii thought he’d responded with a try of his own, only for the TMO to chalk it off on review, suggesting he held on to the ball after an initial tackle – but his Wallabies teammate Lachlan Tizzano came off the bench to bundle over and set up a tense finish.
Yet the Lions held on and will take a 1-0 lead into the second Test match next weekend.
Follow all of the latest reaction from Lions v Australia at the Suncorp Stadium with our live blog below:
Australia vs British & Irish Lions live
- Wallabies host the Lions in the first Test in Brisbane | Live on Sky Sports
- Line-ups as Tom Lynagh given surprise start at fly half for Australia
- Penalty! Lions 3-0 Australia, 1 min – tourists make perfect start with Russell kick
- Try! Lions (Tuipulotu) 10-0 Australia, 8 min – Tuipulotu goes over after waves of pressure
- Try! Lions 10-5 Australia (Jorgensen), 28 min – Wallabies hit back with clever move
- Try! Lions (Curry) 17-5 Australia, 36 min – Flanker powers over the line to extend lead before half-time
- Try! Lions (Sheehan) 24-5 Australia, 42 min – Tourists quickly add a third try after the break
- No try! – TMO rules Joseph Suaallii didn’t release the ball on the ground
- Try! Lions 24-12 Australia (Tizzano) – replacement surges over to create tense finale
- Penalty! Lions 27-12 Australia, 73 min – Smith knocks over to tighten control
- Try! Lions 27-19 Australia (McDermott) – late score closes the gap before full-time
Lions comfortable win
13:50 , Ciara FearnBritish & Irish Lions rode a rampant first-half display to a 27-19 victory over Australia in the first test on Saturday, running in three tries in the first 41 minutes and holding off a late Wallabies fightback for a comfortable victory.
Superior in all facets of the game in the first hour, the Lions scored tries through Sione Tuipulotu, Tom Curry and Dan Sheehan while Finn Russell added nine points from the kicking tee.
Max Jorgensen crossed in the first half for the Wallabies and they improved when they cleared the bench in the second half but tries from replacements Carlo Tizzano and Tate McDermott were too little, too late.
The second test is at the Melbourne Cricket Ground next weekend and the series concludes at Sydney's Stadium Australia on August 2.
Schmidt: Too early to consider Wallabies changes
13:25 , Ciara FearnMore from Wallabies head coach Joe Schmidt speaking to Sky Sports:
“It’s very early to say what we’ll be doing next week. We see how players are, then we wills tart making decisions on Monday or Tuesday.
"At the moment it’s very difficult to say what changes, because when you change personnel sometimes that can change the shape of the way you play."
Schmidt concedes Wallabies 'fluffed their lines'
13:23 , Ciara FearnMore from Wallabies head coach Joe Schmidt speaking to Sky Sports:
"We definitely learned we’ve got character and courage. We weren’t quite accurate at times. When we did get space and opportunity, we fluffed our lines a little bit.
"Against a team like the Lions, you’ve got to be so accurate, you cannot afford to miss a chance because they are so good at squeezing time and space."
Schmidt: Wallabies earned way back into game
13:22 , Ciara FearnWallabies head coach Joe Schmidt speaking to Sky Sports:
"I felt like the players really dug in. Ten-nil down in the first 10 minutes, then the score right before half-time, it was frustrating to go in 17-5 instead of 10-5. Then straight after half-time [Dan Sheehan’s try] from our line-out throw was really disappointing.
"We earned our way back into the game in the last 30 minutes and to finish as close as we did having not had a lot of time together, I’m proud of the players and the way they fought."
Gatland: We want to see improvement from both next week
13:17 , Ciara FearnSky Sports' Warren Gatland:
"It was result over performance. Australia were much better in the second half. Sheehan scored early in the second half but the Australians got themselves back into the game, getting on the front foot, looking more dangerous.
"I was a little surprised how early the Lions made substitutions. I thought they might keep those players on a little bit longer just as they were tidying things up. They probably lost a little bit of cohesion and momentum in doing that.
"The win takes a bit of pressure off, you know you are here right until the very end. We want to see an improved Lions and Australia next week. As a neutral, you want it to be 1-1 to get the excitement going.
"Australia are going to be incredibly desperate to level the series next week now. Bring on Melbourne!"
Farrell’s dressing message to Lions
13:17 , Ciara FearnLions head coach Andy Farrell speaking to Sky Sports:
“It will be congratulations. This is a big occasion for us coming here. We dealt with it very well.
"We were here in 2013, and we’re going to be playing against a wounded animal in the second Test at a sold-out MCG. It doesn’t get any better.
"We’ll know what’s coming our way but we expect ourselves to be better again.”
Farrell hails ‘immense’ back row performance
13:17 , Ciara FearnLions head coach Andy Farrell speaking to Sky Sports:
“The back row were immense. It was a talking point all week, and I’m so glad for them because they stood up.
“If you look at the start of the game, Tom Curry has a huge collision defensively and Tadgh Beirne gets the turnover. That kept on happening all night. And Jack Conan was immensely strong with ball in hand as well.
“The good thing is we roll onto Tuesday night [against First Nations & Pasifika XV] where the rest of the guys get to put their hands up as well.”
Farrell: Plenty for Lions to work on
13:13 , Ciara FearnMore from Lions head coach Andy Farrell speaking to Sky Sports:
“We started the game very well, our game control was excellent throughout.
"Our physicality was spot on in the first half, in the second we obviously lacked a bit of discipline within our own game with loose carries and offloads, as well as penalties, that slowed the game down for us.
"Plenty for us to work on, which is a good place going into game two.”
Farrell: Boys did Lions shirt proud
13:10 , Ciara FearnLions head coach Andy Farrell speaking to Sky Sports:
“Delighted to get the result, to get the first one under the belt which takes us to the last game. It was a big occasion and the lads did the shirt proud.
"How they attacked the game, certainly in the first half, here in the spiritual home of the Wallabies, it was very pleasing to come away with the victory."
Dan Sheehan's glorious try
13:10 , Ciara FearnDan Sheehan of the British and Irish Lions scores a try during game one of the series between Australia Wallabies and British & Irish Lions at Suncorp Stadium.
Tom Curry scoring the side's second try of the game
13:08 , Ciara FearnBritish and Irish Lions' Tom Curry scores their side's second try of the game during the Qatar Airways Lions Tour match at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Australia.
Australia captain Harry Wilson speaking post-match
13:05 , Ciara Fearn“Obviously disappointed with the result. We did not get our game going until the second half. Nothing will change for us.
“We will double down our preparation. It is such a big honour and I love representing Australia. Captaining the side is special.”
The thoughts of Lions captain Maro Itoje
13:05 , Ciara Fearn“It was a tough game. No game of rugby is ever perfect, that definitely was not perfect from us.
“We can have some honest conversations off the back of it and there is lots to build on.
“We put pressure on ourselves, particularly exiting our half and out decision making. Again rugby is not perfect and we will get better. I am very grateful to represent England and the Lions and it is a huge honour.”
O'Gara: Huge gulf in class between these two
13:04 , Ciara FearnSky Sports' Ronan O'Gara:
"Andy Farrell is fascinated by performance and I think we can see that even though his team underperformed a bit today, you can see there is a huge gulf in class between these teams.
"The guy is a fantastic coach who is fascinated by getting the best out of every individual. You look at the first 10 minutes they are 10-0 up and he would be looking for his team to kick on from there.
"The most important thing in Test rugby though is getting that win. "
Beirne: Lions got the job done
13:03 , Ciara FearnPlayer of the Match – Tadhg Beirne – speaking to Sky Sports:
“A proper Test match, particularly the last quarter, which was a real battle. Australia will take confidence with how they finished the game, we’re going to have to look at leaking penalties. Overall, we stepped up, put in a good performance and got the job done. Roll on next week.
“We need to work on our discipline. We were right on the edge near a yellow card at the end. Overall we were good, we controlled the game well and probably lost our way in the last quarter. That is where we’ll have to focus.
“I loved it [out there]. I supposed some of my performances leading up to this weren’t my best, I didn’t know if I’d be in for this game. Getting the nod was a huge honour, I knew I had to step up for it. Hopefully I did it justice.”
Lions emerge as first Test winners
12:57 , Harry Latham-Coyle at Suncorp StadiumThe Lions extend their unbeaten record in Brisbane, then - and it never really felt like they were under threat, however well Australia did to rally in that second 40. There is plenty to tighten up for the tourists, and the Wallabies will take heart from that fightback - but fears of a low-quality series and understrength home opposition haven’t exactly been allayed...
Full-time! Lions 27-19 Australia
12:55 , Ciara FearnThe Lions go 1-0 up in the Test series as they head to Melbourne next week.
Tadhg Beirne named man of the match, with Curry also superb to justify back-row selection
Lions 27-19 Australia
12:54 , Ciara Fearn80 mins: Australia looks to mount another attack but is pinned just five metres from their own line.
The ball goes out, giving the Lions a lineout close to the try line.
Try! Lions 27-19 Australia (McDermott)
12:52 , Ciara Fearn78 mins: Harry Potter charges down the left wing to spark the Wallabies’ attack.
Tate McDermott then picks up from the ruck and races over the line.
Ben Donaldson adds the extras.
Lions 27-12 Australia
12:50 , Ciara Fearn77 mins: The Lions knock on near halfway, with some suspicion it was deliberate.
However, since it occurred during Itoje’s tackle, it’s ruled simply as a knock-on.
Lions 27-12 Australia
12:48 , Ciara Fearn75 mins: Harry Wilson clears a kick downfield to ease the pressure on his team. The Australian captain has been impressive this evening.
Mitchell is on at scrum-half for the Lions replacing Gibson-Park.
Penalty! Lions 27-12 Australia
12:47 , Ciara Fearn73 mins: The Lions press on and earn a penalty. Although Maro Itoje loses possession briefly, they quickly regain it. Itoje chooses to take the three points.
Marcus Smith successfully gains the three points.
Lions 24-12 Australia
12:43 , Ciara Fearn70 mins: The Lions push forward aiming to regain control, but Tommy Freeman’s ambitious offload is knocked on - an unwelcome mistake.
Lions 24-12 Australia
12:41 , Ciara Fearn69 mins: Marcus Smith is on for Finn Russell for the Lions.
A key change for Australia as Kellaway replaces Ikitau.
Try! Lions 24-12 Australia (Tizzano)
12:40 , Ciara Fearn66 mins: Max Jorgensen stretches to reach a cross-field kick but just misses. Play is pulled back for a penalty advantage.
The hosts work through multiple phases near the Lions’ line before Tizzano crashes over. Donaldson converts, cutting the gap to 12 points.
Lions 24-5 Australia
12:36 , Ciara Fearn64 mins: Bundee Aki carries the ball from the scrum base, but the Lions clear it. Australia earns another opportunity to attack from the lineout.
Lions 24-5 Australia
12:35 , Ciara Fearn63 mins: The game slows as the Lions earn a lineout that goes loose. Jack Conan picks it up but loses control.
Harry Wilson then kicks for Harry Potter, who just misses the chase. An improved effort from Australia.
Both teams make changes
12:34 , Ciara Fearn61 mins: Kelleher replaces Sheehan at hooker for the Lions and Donaldson comes on for Lynagh at fly-half for Australia.
Try disallowed! Lions 24-5 Australia
12:33 , Ciara Fearn60 mins: The hosts score, but the try is reviewed. Suaalii breaks through despite Earl’s tackle, but the TMO rules the try out as he didn’t release the ball and the Lions had won the breakdown. .
Joseph Suaallii try chalked off
12:31 , Harry Latham-Coyle at Suncorp StadiumThat is, absolutely, the right call by the officials - it just took an age to get there! It looked live as if Bundee Aki had limpeted over the ball and earned a breakdown penalty, which meant that referee Ben O’Keeffe’s awarding of a try live was met with some perplexed reactions. Maro Itoje was immediately in his ear and, belatedly, the try is chalked off.
A shame, in a way - the contest needed that.
Try! Lions 24-10 Australia (Suaalii)
12:29 , Ciara Fearn60 mins: TMO review underway.
Officials are reviewing a possible double movement by Suaalii, which appears to be confirmed.
They're also looking at a no arms tackle from Ben Earl.
Lions 24-5 Australia
12:28 , Ciara Fearn60 mins: Subs for the Wallabies as Mcdemott and Hooper come on.
Fresh front row
12:26 , Ciara Fearn58 mins: Wallabies face fresh Lions challenge as Bundee Aki, Ben Earl, and Will Stuart enter the field, making their Test Lions debuts - something the Wallabies will want to watch closely.
Lions 24-5 Australia
12:25 , Ciara Fearn57 mins: Wallabies captain Jeremy Wilson charges towards the line but is held up by Maro Itoje.
The referee stops play for an offside penalty, and the Wallabies choose to kick to the corner, aiming to test the Lions’ defence once again.
Australia attack
12:22 , Ciara Fearn55 mins: Australia push forward once more, applying pressure deep in Lions territory.
However, their momentum is halted as Tom Curry is penalised for a high tackle. This gives Australia a valuable penalty opportunity to reset and build their attack.
Tom Lynagh opts for the corner, setting up a potential try-scoring chance.
Well denied by the Lions
12:20 , Ciara Fearn53 mins: Another turnover for the Lions, thanks to excellent work from Tadhg Beirne, who’s been outstanding today.
Australia show intent but lions defence holds firm
12:19 , Ciara Fearn51 mins: Australia earn a much-needed scrum penalty as they try to claw their way back, trailing 5-24.
Their attack shows more promise this time with some phase play, but the Lions’ defence remains rock solid.
Eventually, Jeremy Williams knocks it on and the Lions regain possession.
TMO check (Furlong) Lions 24-5 Australia
12:16 , Ciara FearnThe TMO reviews a clear-out by Tadhg Furlong, who makes contact with Len Ikitau’s head using his shoulder. After the check, it’s ruled as a penalty only.
Australia fans fall silent
12:16 , Harry Latham-CoylePerhaps to illustrate the composition of the crowd in Brisbane, there were boos as Ben O’Keeffe gave a penalty there - and it wasn’t Australian fans believing Tadhg Furlong’s challenge to be worth a stiffer sanction. Moments ago, the stadium announcer was bellowing: “Wallabies fans, let’s hear you” - he hasn’t yet provoked a response.
Lions 24-5 Australia
12:15 , Ciara Fearn49 mins: The Wallabies make a double substitution, bringing Billy Pollard and Angus Bell into the front row.
Lions 24-5 Australia
12:14 , Ciara Fearn49 mins: Sione Tuipulotu threads a kick through that rolls out near the left corner, putting Australia back under pressure.
Lions 24-5 Australia
12:13 , Ciara Fearn48 mins: Ellis Genge makes way after a solid shift with Andrew Porter coming on to join the front row.
Lions 24-5 Australia
12:10 , Ciara Fearn46 mins: Australia look to build some momentum with a scrum inside the Lions’ half, but it comes to nothing.
They’re penalised for obstruction, handing possession back to the Lions - a tough call and another missed chance for the hosts.
Lions 24-5 Australia
12:08 , Ciara Fearn44 min: Joe McCarthy leaves the field with a slight limp, making way for Ollie Chessum.
Tom Curry sets the tone
12:07 , Harry Latham-Coyle at Suncorp StadiumThis is turning into a performance plucked from the pages of folklore from Tom Curry. A lineout steal at the tail there sparked the Lions into life, and the flanker was then on hand to give the try-scoring pass to Dan Sheehan. He’s really set the tone physically throughout, too - it’s no surprise, really, given this is exactly the sort of occasion a Test Match Animal (TM) like the flanker relishes, but this is a superlative showing.
Try! Lions (Sheehan) 24-5 Australia
12:05 , Ciara Fearn42 mins: The Wallabies make a nightmare start to the second half, losing their own lineout.
Huw Jones bursts through the middle with a powerful run and the ball is worked out to the right, where Tom Curry offloads to Sheehan, who dives over in the corner.
Russell adds the extras.
Kick-off! Lions 17-5 Australia
12:03 , Ciara Fearn40 mins: The teams return to the field at Suncorp Stadium as the second half kicks off, with the Wallabies getting us back underway.
Lions 'knew it would be difficult'
12:03 , Ciara FearnLions assistant coach Simon Easterby speaking to Sky Sports...
"We knew it was going to be difficult in terms of intensity and pressure on the ruck ball.
"The fight is on. At times we have created opportunities and haven't taken all of ours, but we have put them under pressure, which is where the scoreboard lies at the moment."
Warburton: Lions suffocating Australia
12:02 , Ciara FearnFormer Lions captain Sam Warburton:
“Tom Curry has been exceptional. When you are picked in a Lions pack, you must be physical.
"Australia cannot get any go-forward ball. Big collisions are slowing the ball down and I couldn’t see any way through for the Wallabies in that first half.
“Australia need to be creative. Do they keep banging the same drum, or do they go aerial and try and get some go-forward there?
“The Lions bench – Ben Earl and Ollie Chessum – need to come on and elevate this defence further to keep suffocating Australia. If they keep them below 17 in the second half, the Lions will win.”
Russell and Scottish midfield 'absolutely fantastic'
11:58 , Ciara FearnThree-time Lions tourist Will Greenwood on Sky Sports:
"Finn Russell is in and around the action, and with two or three touches of the ball, the Lions have scored. The Scottish midfield has been absolutely fabulous in the first half.”
Lions superior in contact and at the ruck
11:57 , Harry Latham-Coyle at Suncorp StadiumA half of portentous omens for the rest of the series, with the Lions totally dominant yet somehow only 12 points clear. There have been at least three moments of real butchery from Andy Farrell’s tourists, and a fair bit of loose handling and kicking too – and yet it just hasn’t mattered given their superiority in contact, at the ruck and – Max Jorgensen’s try aside – in the aerial contest.
The Wallabies just haven’t been able to find a foothold, leaving the outnumbered Aussie fans at Suncorp Stadium with little to cheer. Good halves from Tom Curry and Tadhg Beirne have answered a few of the questions perhaps unfairly directed their, and Andy Farrell’s, way after the pair got the nod on the flanks.
'Really good performance from Curry'
11:57 , Ciara FearnTom Shanklin, 2005 British and Irish Lion:
“Tom Curry is having an awesome game. There was a lot made of him starting ahead of Jac Morgan and Josh van der Flier but he is on fire at the moment.
“He has been physical in defence and attack – it's been a really good performance.”
'Wallabies must score quickly to avoid blowout'
11:55 , Ciara FearnFormer Lions head coach Warren Gatland on Sky Sports:
"Australia are hanging in there. They need to score pretty quickly in the second half to get themselves back into the game otherwise it could be a bit of a blowout."
Half-time stats
11:54 , Ciara FearnThe Lions have made more of an impact so far, with 77 carries compared to Australia’s 47.
They’ve also gained significantly more ground, covering 257 metres against Australia’s 112. In terms of post-contact metres, the Lions have doubled their opponents with 75 to 37.
They’re also more successful at the gain-line, achieving 34 compared to Australia’s 16.
Finally, the Lions have shown greater creativity with 6 offloads, while Australia has managed just 1.
Half-time! Lions 17-5 Australia
11:49 , Ciara FearnThe Wallabies tap and kick to touch, closing out an action-packed first period in Brisbane.
Lynagh takes a heavy hit from curry after box kick
11:48 , Ciara Fearn40 mins: Tom Lynagh is smashed in the air following Gibson-Park’s box kick. Curry makes the tackle, only a penalty, but a yellow card was close.
Lions 17-5 Australia
11:47 , Ciara Fearn38 mins: Australia trails 5-17 as the Lions press again, but a key turnover helps Australia relieve some pressure on their defence.
Try! Lions (Curry) 17-5 Australia
11:44 , Ciara Fearn36 mins: Sheehan feeds Itoje at the lineout near the left corner. Beirne drives close, Itoje picks up and pushes forward but is held up.
Lions earn another penalty as Sheehan taps and runs.
After sustained pressure, Tom Curry scoops the ball from the ruck and powers over for the Lions’ second try. Russell successfully converts.
Lions 10-5 Australia
11:42 , Ciara Fearn34 mins: Gibson-Park switches right and Lowe gets close, but the ball spills loose. Australia caught offside and Russell opts for the corner kick.
Lions 10-5 Australia
11:41 , Ciara Fearn33 mins: Maro Itoje powers up the middle to launch the Lions’ attack, with Huw Jones driving left and nearly breaking through to score.
The Lions are pushing for more.
Lions 10-5 Australia
11:40 , Ciara Fearn32 mins: Finn Russell breaks through and tests Australia’s defence again with a cross-kick to Joe McCarthy, who just can’t control it near the line.
Try! Lions 10-5 Australia (Jorgensen)
11:36 , Ciara Fearn28 mins: Jorgensen answers back for Australia.
Jake Gordon sends a box kick down the right and Jorgensen outjumps Keenan to dart in for a crucial try - exactly what Australia needed.
Lynagh is unable to add a tight conversion.
Lions 10-0 Australia
11:35 , Ciara Fearn27 mins: Australia win a penalty. Referee Ben O’Keeffe tells the captains to calm down.
Wallabies secure the scrum and a penalty after Genge collapses it. Allan Alaalatoa returns with blood streaming.
Lions regain possession after Freeman’s kick out
11:32 , Ciara Fearn26 mins: After some kicking exchanges, Freeman sends the ball out again, but the Lions win the lineout and launch an attack from inside their own half.
Freeman’s kick goes dead as Wallabies win line-out
11:30 , Ciara Fearn24 mins: Gibson-Park cuts inside to Freeman, who runs but kicks the ball dead.
Wallabies take the lineout, Lynagh clears and Lowe’s knock-on is recovered.
Lions 10-0 Australia
11:28 , Ciara Fearn22 mins: Harry Potter fires a long kick upfield, just missing a perfect 50-22. Keenan stays alert and lets the ball go dead, showing sharp awareness.
Australia can’t seem to catch a break. Play pauses for Matt Faessler’s ankle treatment, then resumes with a Lions scrum.
No try! Lions (Jones) 10-0 Australia
11:23 , Ciara Fearn19 mins: Scotland’s centres combine perfectly as the Lions score once more.
James Lowe breaks through the Wallabies’ defence, brushing off Jorgensen, then passes to Huw Jones, who powers over the line.
However, the TMO ruled the try no good, as Jones didn’t release the ball after being tackled.
Lions defence shines as Beirne wins crucial turnover
11:22 , Ciara Fearn18 mins: Curry is dominating the contact, and the Lions’ defence is holding firm. Despite Australia running over ten phases, they’ve made little ground.
The Lions’ line speed is excellent, leading to a turnover won by Tadhg Beirne at the breakdown. Finn Russell then clears effectively. Andy Farrell will be very pleased with that defensive effort.
Tom Lynagh responds by kicking into touch.
Lions errors hand scrum advantage to Australia
11:21 , Ciara Fearn16 mins: One error from the Lions is quickly followed by another. Right after Curry crushed Jorgensen, Keenan mishandles a cross-field kick just outside the Lions’ 22, handing Australia a scrum.
Lions 10-0 Australia
11:19 , Ciara Fearn14 mins: The ball is launched into the air as Tom Lynagh and Tommy Freeman battle for possession. Australia’s Lynagh knocks it on, giving the Lions a scrum in a strong spot, 22 metres out.
However, Ellis Genge concedes a penalty at the scrum, allowing Australia to push the Lions back. James Lowe kicks it forward, but it goes well beyond the mark.
Keenan’s long kick puts wallabies under pressure
11:16 , Ciara Fearn11 mins: Hugo Keenan sends a deep kick downfield, pushing the Wallabies back into their own 22.
The hosts need to find some rhythm before the Lions take full control.
Try! Lions (Tuipulotu) 10-0 Australia
11:13 , Ciara Fearn8 mins: Russell breaks from just inside Australia’s half and offloads to Sheehan, taking the Lions into the 22.
With a penalty advantage, Russell fires a brilliant pass - Tuipulotu finishes.
Russell converts and the Lions lead by 10.
Lions 3-0 Australia
11:11 , Ciara Fearn7 mins: Sheehan hits Beirne at the lineout, but the maul stalls quickly.
Inside Australia’s 22, Lions lose momentum as Fraser McReight wins a key breakdown penalty.
Russel's vision pins Wallabies deep
11:10 , Ciara Fearn5 mins: Smart play from Russell, he sees space in behind and rolls a grubber through. Potter gets a touch, but it goes into touch.
Lions line-out inside the Wallabies' 22.
Wallabies settle early as Lynagh probes for space
11:08 , Ciara Fearn3 mins: After a few phases, Gibson-Park clears with a box kick. The Wallabies regain possession - Lynagh spots a gap but is quickly brought down.
Penalty! Lions 3-0 Australia
11:06 , Ciara Fearn1 min: Just seconds in Lions win a penalty at the first breakdown, thanks to Beirne’s sharp jackal.
Finn Russell slots it from 30 metres out - straight and clean. Lions strike first.
Kick-off! Lions 0-0 Australia
11:03 , Ciara FearnWe’re underway in Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium.
Finn Russell kicks and the 2025 Test series is underway.
The teams take to the field
10:59 , Ciara FearnThe lights are flashing and the atmosphere looks electric. Lions fans are roaring amongst a sea of red.
Captains Harry Wilson and Maro Itoje share final words with their teams - one last boost before the battle begins.
For the players, this is a moment to remember. They've fought hard to get here. Win tonight and it's all worth it.
No Lions anthem but ‘Advance Australia Fair’ will be sang.
Australia vs Lions referee: Who is first Test official Ben O’Keeffe?
10:50 , Harry Latham-CoyleHere’s today’s officiating team:
First Test match officials
Referee: Ben O’Keeffe (New Zealand)
ARs: Nika Amashukeli (Georgia) & Andrea Piardi (Italy)
TMO: Richard Kelly (New Zealand)
FPRO: Eric Gauzins (France)
Australia vs Lions referee: Who is first Test official Ben O’Keeffe?
All Blacks grind down France 29-19 in Hamilton to sweep series
10:47 , Ciara FearnAcross the Tasman today, replacement hooker Brodie McAlister scored a late try in a memorable test debut for New Zealand to seal a 29-19 win over France in Hamilton and complete a 3-0 series sweep.
Jordie Barrett set up the winner with a line-break in front of the posts, before passing back inside to McAlister who slid over the line in front of delighted home fans at Waikato Stadium.
"To debut here, it's pretty awesome and I'm pretty proud to put the black jersey on and get to work with the brothers," said the Waikato Chiefs hooker.
"It's been quite a journey (for me), a lot of setbacks, a lot of resilience."
Team line-ups
10:45 , Ciara FearnKick-off is nearly upon us and the stadium is filling up. Here’s a reminder of the two XVs..
Lions XV: 1 Ellis Genge, 2 Dan Sheehan, 3 Tadhg Furlong; 4 Maro Itoje (capt.), 5 Joe McCarthy; 6 Tadhg Beirne, 7 Tom Curry, 8 Jack Conan; 9 Jamison Gibson-Park, 10 Finn Russell; 11 James Lowe, 12 Sione Tuipulotu, 13 Huw Jones, 14 Tommy Freeman; 15 Hugo Keenan.
Replacements: 16 Ronan Kelleher, 17 Andrew Porter, 18 Will Stuart, 19 Ollie Chessum, 20 Ben Earl; 21 Alex Mitchell, 22 Marcus Smith, 23 Bundee Aki.
Australia XV: 1 James Slipper, 2 Matt Faessler, 3 Allan Alaalatoa; 4 Nick Frost, 5 Jeremy Williams; 6 Nick Champion de Crespigny, 7 Fraser McReight, 8 Harry Wilson (capt.); 9 Jake Gordon, 10 Tom Lynagh; 11 Harry Potter, 12 Len Ikitau, 13 Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii, 14 Max Jorgensen; 15 Tom Wright.
Replacements: 16 Billy Pollard, 17 Angus Bell, 18 Tom Robertson, 19 Tom Hooper, 20 Carlo Tizzano; 21 Tate McDermott, 22 Ben Donaldson, 23 Andrew Kellaway.
Tom Lynagh makes first Wallabies start
10:40 , Harry Latham-CoyleWhile it’s undoubtedly a massive night in Finn Russell’s career, his opposite number is facing another level of pressure entirely. For Tom Lynagh, a first international start arrives in the opening encounter of a British and Irish Lions series - the son of Wallabies legend Michael has the pedigree and poise to thrive on this sort of stage, but blimey is this a gamble from Joe Schmidt.
He’s a little bit more about Lynagh, who in a different world could have been an England or Italy international:
Tom Lynagh: The Surrey-educated Australia great’s son handed shock start vs the Lions
Johnny Sexton reveals how ‘matured’ Finn Russell has surprised him on British and Irish Lions tour
10:30 , Harry Latham-CoyleIt’s fair to say that Johnny Sexton and Finn Russell haven’t always seen eye-to-eye, but the Lions assistant coach - a first Test starter here in 2013 - has been mightily impressed by the Scot’s work on this trip - even if he’s still a bit “flash”...
Johnny Sexton backs ‘matured’ Finn Russell to shine for British and Irish Lions
Finn Russell’s redemption at the heart of different Scottish Lions story
10:20 , Harry Latham-CoyleIt’s a big night for Finn Russell, who has the chance to write a new Lions narrative after two tough tour experiences in the past. He is part of an all-Scottish midfield tonight for the first time in Lions history:
Finn Russell’s redemption at the heart of different Scottish Lions story
The pivotal British & Irish Lions pick that could undo Australia in first Test
10:10 , Harry Latham-CoyleYes, there was heaps to dig into in Andy Farrell’s selection - even if, a few injuries aside, it looked rather like a side he might have sketched out before the tour. Tom Curry and Tadhg Beirne have been backed largely based on past performances rather than current form, but it is a flanker combination that makes sense:
The pivotal Lions pick that could undo Australia in first Test
Team news - British and Irish Lions
10:05 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe Lions utilise Tadhg Beirne on the blindside in a surprise selection call from Andy Farrell, with Tom Curry winning a competitive race for the No 7 shirt on the opposite flank. Joe McCarthy partners skipper Maro Itoje, while Tadhg Furlong starts for a third series in succession at tighthead prop.
In the backline, Garry Ringrose’s injury opens the door for Scottish centres Sione Tuipulotu and Huw Jones to join Finn Russell in midfield, while Hugo Keenan is stationed at full-back in the absence of Blair Kinghorn. Marcus Smith proves cover on the bench having been preferred to fellow Englishmen Fin Smith and Owen Farrell, while Jac Morgan, Henry Pollock and Josh van der Flier all miss out on the matchday 23 entirely.
Lions XV: 1 Ellis Genge, 2 Dan Sheehan, 3 Tadhg Furlong; 4 Maro Itoje (capt.), 5 Joe McCarthy; 6 Tadhg Beirne, 7 Tom Curry, 8 Jack Conan; 9 Jamison Gibson-Park, 10 Finn Russell; 11 James Lowe, 12 Sione Tuipulotu, 13 Huw Jones, 14 Tommy Freeman; 15 Hugo Keenan.
Replacements: 16 Ronan Kelleher, 17 Andrew Porter, 18 Will Stuart, 19 Ollie Chessum, 20 Ben Earl; 21 Alex Mitchell, 22 Marcus Smith, 23 Bundee Aki.
Our line up for Saturday's first Test! 👊🦁#Lions2025
— British & Irish Lions (@lionsofficial) July 17, 2025
Team news - Australia
10:00 , Harry Latham-CoyleAustralia have sprung a surprise at fly half with Tom Lynagh, son of Wallabies legend Michael, stationed at No 10 after injury to Noah Lolesio. Rob Valetini is another significant injury blow as debutant Nick Champion de Crespigny takes the other flanker spot opposite arch scavenger Fraser McReight. There is no Will Skelton in the 23 due to a calf issue, either, with Nick Frost and Jeremy Williams used in locking combination and Tom Hooper providing cover off the bench.
Australia XV: 1 James Slipper, 2 Matt Faessler, 3 Allan Alaalatoa; 4 Nick Frost, 5 Jeremy Williams; 6 Nick Champion de Crespigny, 7 Fraser McReight, 8 Harry Wilson (capt.); 9 Jake Gordon, 10 Tom Lynagh; 11 Harry Potter, 12 Len Ikitau, 13 Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii, 14 Max Jorgensen; 15 Tom Wright.
Replacements: 16 Billy Pollard, 17 Angus Bell, 18 Tom Robertson, 19 Tom Hooper, 20 Carlo Tizzano; 21 Tate McDermott, 22 Ben Donaldson, 23 Andrew Kellaway.
Your 23 to take on The Lions 🦘
— Wallabies (@wallabies) July 17, 2025
🎟️ https://t.co/JtxDG8aI2m
📺 @Channel9 | @StanSportAU#Wallabies #LionsTour2025 pic.twitter.com/ys5bR026MS
Australia vs British and Irish Lions
09:55 , Harry Latham-CoyleWe did have that bit of rain yesterday but the forecast is set fair tonight, the temperature dipping this evening in the depths of the Australian winter after highs earlier in the low 20s. It’s all rather pleasant - though I have just donned a jumper to turn two layers into three.
Let’s take a closer look at the two teams...
Wallabies learn lessons of 2013 Lions series in bid to avoid first Test slip-up
09:45 , Harry Latham-CoyleRemember Kurtley Beale’s slip in 2013? The Wallabies playmaker had the chance to snatch first Test victory in Brisbane with the final kick, only to lose his footing at the crucial moment as he struck his penalty. Australia captain Harry Wilson admitted yesterday that his side had been drawing on the memories of James Slipper and James O’Connor, again part of the squad 12 years on, in a bid to learn the lessons of that series.
Wallabies learn lessons of 2013 Lions series in bid to avoid first Test slip-up
Andy Farrell insists Lions will not take weakened Wallabies lightly in first Test
09:30 , Harry Latham-CoyleAndy Farrell has insisted that his British and Irish Lions will not be overconfident against Australia rugby after urging his side to have no regrets in the first Test in Brisbane.
The tourists are heavily favoured to beat the Wallabies at Suncorp Stadium, particularly after injuries to three key figures in the hosts’ side with Will Skelton and Rob Valetini joining Noah Lolesio in being ruled out of the opening clash.
While the Lions traditionally take on opposition at the top of their game, Australia still look to be in a rebuilding phase under Joe Schmidt after the disastrous 2023 World Cup overseen by Eddie Jones. Schmidt, formerly Ireland head coach, will leave his role next summer, and has struck a surprisingly downbeat tone when asked about his side’s chances.
Farrell’s squad, meanwhile, have boldly talked up the prospect of whitewashing the Wallabies and establishing themselves as one of the best Lions sides ever, though the head coach believes that there is no complacency within the group.
Andy Farrell insists Lions will not take weakened Wallabies lightly in first Test
Tommy Freeman revels in Lions selection after mother’s injury mishap in Australia
09:15 , Harry Latham-CoyleTommy Freeman has revealed that his selection in the British and Irish Lions team for the first Test came as timely news to cheer up his mother, who was forced into an Australian hospital after breaking her foot out on tour.
Freeman has been picked to start on the right wing against the Wallabies in Brisbane, with the Englishman joining Irish pair Hugo Keenan and James Lowe in the back three with Mack Hansen an injury absentee.
Suncorp Stadium will be familiar turf to the 24-year-old having made his international debut in the city on England’s summer tour of Australia in 2022, and he will now get the chance to run out again at the ground in Lions red.
On that tour Down Under, Freeman promised to pay for his parents, Sara and Cliff, to fly business class for this tour if he were to earn a Lions selection that looked a long way off at that time - a vow he regretted after making Andy Farrell’s touring party.
But having followed through with his promise, the Freemans suffered a mishap when Sara suffered a Lisfranc injury out on tour, forcing her into hospital in Adelaide.
Tommy Freeman revels in Lions selection after mother’s injury mishap in Australia
When do the British and Irish Lions play Australia? Full tour schedule, kick-off times and how to watch on TV
09:00 , Harry Latham-CoyleNeed a refresher on all the action that has already taken place on this tour, and the fixtures still to come in Australia? We’ve got you covered:
When do the Lions play Australia? Full tour schedule and how to watch on TV
The Sea of Red are out in force
08:53 , Harry Latham-Coyle at Suncorp StadiumThe sun has set in Brisbane with this, leaving a pleasant evening - midwinter here is very different to back home. A few Queenslanders do like to celebrate Christmas in July for...some reason - there have been scattered Santa hats in the city today,, adding to the Sea of Red made up by the travelling Lions fans. Having been unable to travel four years ago due to the pandemic, the tourists’ fan base are back in force, vastly outnumbering the gold-shirted Wallabies shirts in the streets around a buzzy Suncorp Stadium.
Player-by-player guide to the Lions squad
08:45 , Harry Latham-CoyleYes, it’s now a bit of a bloated British and Irish Lions squad in Australia, with injuries and that Tuesday fixture necessitating a few call-ups as cover. Here’s our guide to each and every member of the touring party:
British and Irish Lions call up Scottish trio as cover as Wallabies series looms
08:30 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe British and Irish Lions have called up Scotland trio Rory Sutherland, Ewan Ashman and Darcy Graham ahead of their series against Australia.
The Lions’ squad has swelled to 44 players with the latest additions, who are being brought in to provide cover that will prevent key Test personnel from backing up in next Tuesday’s match against a First Nations & Pasifika XV.
The eighth match on tour takes place before the second Test against the Wallabies in Melbourne on 26 July.
Prop Sutherland, hooker Ewan Ashman and wing Darcy Graham have all been summoned from Scotland’s tour of New Zealand.
British and Irish Lions call up Scottish trio as cover as Wallabies series looms
Joe Schmidt provides update on Rob Valetini and Will Skelton after huge double Australia injury blow
08:15 , Harry Latham-CoyleAustralia head coach Joe Schmidt expects Will Skelton and Rob Valetini to be fit for the second Test against the British and Irish Lions after the pair were ruled out of the opening encounter in a huge double injury blow.
Blindside flanker Valetini and lock Skelton are both nursing calf issues and have not managed to make the Wallabies’ 23 for the first Test in Brisbane.
Valetini has been a standout for Australia over the last two years amid fluctuations in the side’s form, while the absence of hulking second row Skelton is significant
To compound matters, Langi Gleeson - Valetini’s likely replacement in the No 6 shirt - has also been ruled out, forcing Schmidt to select a debutant in Nick Champion de Crespigny alongside Fraser McReight and captain Harry Wilson in the back row.
Confirming that Skelton and Valetini would have featured had this been a Test decider, Schmidt nonetheless admitted that their unavailability was significant news.
Schmidt provides update on Valetini and Skelton after huge double injury blow
Tadhg Beirne starts in back row as Owen Farrell misses out on first Lions Test against Australia
08:00 , Harry Latham-CoyleTadhg Beirne has been handed a start on the blindside in the British and Irish Lions team for the first Test against Australia, with Owen Farrell missing out on the matchday squad.
Irishman Beirne, more regularly a lock, joins Tom Curry and Jack Conan in the starting trio after a competitive fight for back row places, with Josh van der Flier, Jac Morgan and Henry Pollock missing out on the 23 entirely. The absence of Morgan means that there is no Welshman in a Lions Test side for the first time since the 1890s.
Back three contenders Mack Hansen and Blair Kinghorn both miss out due to injury, while Garry Ringrose was ruled out last week through concussion, leaving Sione Tuipulotu and Huw Jones alongside Finn Russell in an all-Scottish midfield.
Marcus Smith provides fly half cover on the bench ahead of compatriots Fin Smith and Farrell, with his capacity to play full-back perhaps key after Hansen and Kinghorn’s injuries.
Beirne starts in back row as Farrell misses out on first Lions Test against Australia
Pete Samu leaves First Nations & Pasifika squad as Lions embroiled in eligibility row on eve of first Test
07:45 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe British and Irish Lions have become embroiled in an eligibility row on the eve of the first Test against Australia with Wallabies back row Pete Samu ruled unable to feature for the First Nations & Pasifika XV in Melbourne next week.
The Lions will face the composite selection on Tuesday at Marvel Stadium between the first and second Tests in their last midweek fixture, with the game arranged after the demise of the Melbourne Rebels.
The team will be formed of players with heritage either of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations who first inhabited Australia, or the Pacific Islands. Samu had been selected in a squad chosen by head coach Toutai Kefu, the former Australia No 8 and Tonga boss.
Samu leaves Pasifika squad as Lions embroiled in eligibility row on eve of first Test
Why the British and Irish Lions’ uncertain future could be bad news for Australia
07:30 , Harry Latham-CoyleThis is a huge series for Australia, with a home World Cup on the horizon and plenty of questions about what the future holds - both for the Wallabies and, pertinently, the Lions.
Why the British and Irish Lions’ uncertain future could be bad news for Australia
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
