The British and Irish Lions are demonstrating a commitment to community engagement during their tour in Australia. On Wednesday, Lions chairman and tour manager Ieuan Evans, alongside chief executive Ben Calverley, visited the Spinal Life Healthy Living Centre in Brisbane, highlighting their collaboration with the Matt Hampson Foundation, a UK-based charity supporting young athletes injured in sport. This partnership exemplifies how the Lions leverage their prominence to advocate for meaningful causes, as Evans noted: “One of rugby’s greatest attributes… is that we embrace people and help them in challenging times.”
However, the Lions’ time in Australia has not been without controversy. Recently, Rugby Australia blocked Pete Samu from participating in a First Nations and Pasifika XV match, which some saw as contradictory to Calverley’s previous remarks on working closely with Rugby Australia to promote the sport. He emphasised the dual nature of the Lions’ role, focusing on both competition and collaboration with other rugby entities.
The Lions, a unique amalgamation of top players from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, roam continents every four years for tours to Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. The current tour is particularly noteworthy due to the absence of Welsh players in the first Test squad against the Wallabies — a first in the team’s 129-year history, reflective of challenges faced by Welsh rugby recently.
Despite these issues, the Lions are excited about their evolving mission, including plans for a women’s Lions team to tour New Zealand in two years, an initiative touted by Evans as a significant step forward. With a large contingent of around 44 players, 90 staff members, and approximately 40,000 fans expected in Australia, the tour is projected to generate around 200 million AUD for the local economy.
As the Lions embark on this journey, they recognise the unique challenge presented by touring and the shared experiences that forge long-lasting friendships among supporters. Calverley sums up the essence of the tour: “It’s a great experience when the rugby is being played, but when the rugby isn’t… those fans… have great adventures and great opportunities.”
With a charming mascot ‘BIL’ in tow, entrusted to be cared for by the youngest player, the Lions are set to create unforgettable memories while balancing their commitments to both competitive success and community support.