British & Irish Lions
Founded in 1888 as the Shaw and Shrewsbury Team, the British & Irish Lions is a rugby union team that commands respect. This test match team is made up of eligible players from across the four Home Nations and tours every four years, rotating with Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. A premier pick of some of the finest rugby players from across the UK and Ireland, this team enjoyed plenty of success from the onset of the twentieth century and continues to be a formidable force on the international rugby tournament circuit. Catch all the action as your favourite players work their magic on the pitch and grab British & Irish Lions tickets online at StubHub today!
British & Irish Lions origins and history
The British & Irish Lions began life as the Shaw and Shrewsbury Team at the end of the nineteenth century, mainly consisting of English players with a few Scottish and Welsh faces thrown into the mix. Although the team toured several times at the start of that decade, it would be a few years before they really came into their own and ignited public interest. By 1910, the team embarked on what was arguably its first official foray into international play when they did battle in the South African tournament. Although the team lost out to the competition, commercial and public interest was officially aroused.
Exciting international fixtures
By 1950, the team had emerged as a serious force in international rugby. All squad members selected for the lineup had international playing experience behind them, while the national makeup of the team was much more diverse than ever before. Although the 50s saw the team win many games, many Test series games resulted in lacklustre draws or disappointing losses. This would all change however by the time the 1970s rolled around. The Lions won out over New Zealand in 1971, before marching to victory once more against South Africa in 1974.
Today, the team remains one of the most respected on the international rugby circuit and continues to capitalise on its legacy. As a general rule, the British & Irish Lions tour the southern hemisphere regularly, visiting Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. However, some exceptions can occur, resulting in new competition to enter the fold. In 2005, the Lions went toe to toe against Argentina on the pitch at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium, before heading south to take on New Zealand.
Enjoy your favourite rugby teams live
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