Huge changes could see a four-Test series in 2029, with one of the matches played in Australia
The 2029 British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand could involve a four-Test series – with one of those Tests potentially being played in Australia.
Leaked documents from New Zealand Rugby last week revealed the country’s governing body is projected to lose £28m over the next five years – even if the next visit of the Lions is likely to bring in record revenues. Major changes have now been promised in order to improve the financial crisis.
And that could affect the next Lions tour, which is seen as a huge a money-spinner for New Zealand.
According to The Australian, Melbourne Cricket Ground is being considered as a possible venue for a Lions Test in 2029.
It would be a radical step for a Lions tour of New Zealand to play a Test in Australia.
However, moving a match to Melbourne could help bring in much-needed revenue.
Last year’s epic second Test, when Andy Farrell’s side edged past the Wallabies, brought in over 90,000 fans to the famous cricket ground.
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Auckland’s Eden Park – which hosted two of the last three Tests against the Lions in 2017 – can hold around 50,000 fans.
The report adds that a four-Test series is also being considered alongside the traditional three Tests.
New Zealand recently completed a stellar four-Test series against South Africa, with that extra Test allowing for extra income.
The last Lions tour of New Zealand ended in a controversial drawn series.
There are also reportedly plans for the Lions to play France and Italy on the way to New Zealand.
Reported changes to the next Lions tour come just days after news broke that New Zealand could completely abandon Super Rugby as they look to overhaul their domestic game.
One option would be for New Zealand to walk away from the 10-team Super Rugby Pacific – comprised of four Australian franchises, Fijian Drua and New Zealand’s five franchises – and replace it with a new domestic league.
That league would be comprised of around eight to 10 teams. Another option would be to expand Super Rugby by two more teams. Combining Super Rugby and the NPC is something else being considered.
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