Kiss, Kefu to Coach Lions Tour XVs

Incoming Wallabies coach Les Kiss will lead the AUNZ Invitational XV, a combined Australia and New Zealand team, against the British & Irish Lions at Adelaide Oval on July 12, assisted by former All Blacks coach Ian Foster. There is hope that Japan-based stars such as Aaron Smith and Richie Mo’unga will feature in the squad. Wallabies legend and ex-Tonga coach Toutai Kefu will head the inaugural First Nations & Pasifika XV, who will play the Lions in Melbourne on July 22. Both Kiss and Kefu have expressed the honor and significance of their appointments, highlighting the chance to represent and celebrate diverse rugby communities. These matches are key tour fixtures leading up to the Lions’ Test series against Australia, starting in Brisbane on July 19. The teams are expected to showcase elite talent and foster unity across rugby codes.