Queensland Reds vs British & Irish Lions: Ultimate Showdown at Suncorp Stadium

Catch the thrilling match between Queensland Reds and British & Irish Lions at Suncorp Stadium. Follow live updates and in-depth analysis.

Match Preview

The British and Irish Lions are set to face the Queensland Reds in a highly anticipated rugby union clash at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. This match is part of the Lions' tour of Australia, following their dominant 54-7 victory over the Western Force. The Lions aim to continue their winning streak, but the Reds, known for their resilience, are expected to put up a formidable challenge.

Venue and Timing

The game will take place at the iconic Suncorp Stadium, which has a capacity of 52,500 spectators. The match is scheduled to kick off at 11:00 BST (20:00 local time). This venue holds special significance as it was the site of the Lions' triumphant 2013 series.

Team News

British & Irish Lions: Head coach Andy Farrell has made 14 changes to the starting lineup, with fly-half Finn Russell being the only player to retain his position. Maro Itoje returns to captain the team after missing the previous match. Ireland's Hugo Keenan and Jamison Gibson-Park will make their first appearances on tour.

Queensland Reds: The Reds boast a strong lineup featuring nine Australian internationals and two former All Blacks. Despite missing six Wallabies due to national team commitments, the Reds have bolstered their pack with the addition of prop Aidan Ross.

How to Follow

Fans can follow live text commentary on the BBC Sport website and app, with pre-match build-up starting from 10:00 BST. Post-match analysis will be available online and via Radio 5 Live and the Rugby Union Weekly podcast. The game will also be broadcast live on Sky Sports.

Recent Form

Queensland Reds: The Reds finished fifth in the Super Rugby Pacific standings, winning eight and losing six matches. They had a mixed pre-season, thrashing a young Bristol team but narrowly overcoming Ulster.

British & Irish Lions: The Lions are coming off a convincing win against the Western Force, showcasing their attacking prowess with eight tries. They aim to maintain this momentum as they prepare for the upcoming Test series against the Wallabies.

Line-ups

Queensland Reds: Campbell (capt); Anderson, Flook, Paisami, Ryan; McLaughlin-Phillips, Thomas; Ross, Faessler, Toomaga-Allen, Canham, Salakaia-Loto, Uru, Bryant, Brial.

British and Irish Lions: Keenan; Freeman, Jones, Aki, Van der Merwe; Russell, Gibson-Park; Porter, Kelleher, Stuart, Itoje (capt), Chessum, Curry, Morgan, Conan.

Match Officials

Referee: James Doleman (New Zealand) Assistant Referee 1: Paul Williams (New Zealand) Assistant Referee 2: Ben O'Keeffe (New Zealand) TMO: Glenn Newman (New Zealand) Foul Play Review Officer (FPRO): Marius van der Westhuizen (South Africa)

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