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)

What to Read Next

Lions' Legacy in the Balance: Martin Johnson's Blueprint for Series Triumph Against Australia
Rugby

Lions' Legacy in the Balance: Martin Johnson's Blueprint for Series Triumph Against Australia

Rugby legend Martin Johnson inspires the Lions with a masterclass in fundamentals ahead of the decisive Melbourne clash. Discover how history, strategy, and fan power collide in this high-stakes Test series.

Behind the Scenes: The Herculean Logistics of a British & Irish Lions Rugby Tour
Rugby

Behind the Scenes: The Herculean Logistics of a British & Irish Lions Rugby Tour

An in-depth look at the monumental logistics behind the British & Irish Lions' Australia tour, featuring 10 tonnes of gear, 7,000 miles of truck movements, and sustainable solutions for modern sports expeditions.

Reviving Wales' World Cup Hopes: 5 Critical Adjustments After Scotland Defeat
Rugby

Reviving Wales' World Cup Hopes: 5 Critical Adjustments After Scotland Defeat

After a record-breaking 38-8 loss to Scotland, Wales faces urgent tactical reforms to salvage their World Cup campaign. Analysis of defensive frailties, attacking inefficiency, and leadership challenges ahead of crucial matches against Canada and Fiji.

Ollie Lawrence’s Triumph Over Adversity: A Rugby Star’s Journey Back to the Premiership
Rugby

Ollie Lawrence’s Triumph Over Adversity: A Rugby Star’s Journey Back to the Premiership

England and Bath Rugby center Ollie Lawrence shares his inspiring recovery from a career-threatening Achilles injury, detailing his innovative rehabilitation methods and mental resilience ahead of the new Premiership season.

From Dutch Fields to All Blacks Glory: Fabian Holland's Cinematic Rugby Journey
Rugby

From Dutch Fields to All Blacks Glory: Fabian Holland's Cinematic Rugby Journey

Dutch-born lock Fabian Holland prepares for his All Blacks debut against France, completing an extraordinary journey from Netherlands rugby fields to New Zealand's iconic black jersey, hailed by coach Scott Robertson as 'movie-worthy' determination.

Fitz Harding Reaffirms Commitment to Bristol Bears with New Contract as Club Targets Silverware
Rugby

Fitz Harding Reaffirms Commitment to Bristol Bears with New Contract as Club Targets Silverware

Bristol Bears captain Fitz Harding extends his stay with the club following his 100th appearance, reinforcing leadership ambitions as the Premiership side aims for championship glory. Includes match analysis and club objectives.

Ireland Rugby Stands with Shannon Ikahihifo: Courage Amidst Breast Cancer Battle Ahead of World Cup Campaign
Rugby

Ireland Rugby Stands with Shannon Ikahihifo: Courage Amidst Breast Cancer Battle Ahead of World Cup Campaign

Ireland's rugby squad rallies behind Shannon Ikahihifo after her breast cancer diagnosis, highlighting team solidarity and her call to raise awareness ahead of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

England Unleashes Unchanged Powerhouse Squad for Women's Rugby World Cup Opener Against USA
Rugby

England Unleashes Unchanged Powerhouse Squad for Women's Rugby World Cup Opener Against USA

England's Red Roses announce an unchanged starting XV for their Women's Rugby World Cup opener against the USA, featuring captain Zoe Aldcroft and record-breaking crowd expectations at Sunderland's Stadium of Light.

Tom Curry's Masterclass: British & Irish Lions Dominate Wallabies in First Test Thriller
Rugby

Tom Curry's Masterclass: British & Irish Lions Dominate Wallabies in First Test Thriller

A breakdown of the British & Irish Lions' 27-19 victory over Australia, highlighting Tom Curry's relentless physicality and Tadhg Beirne's defensive masterclass that set the tone for a crucial first Test win.

Premiership Rugby 2025-26 Season: A Comprehensive Club-by-Club Guide and Title Contenders Analysis
Rugby

Premiership Rugby 2025-26 Season: A Comprehensive Club-by-Club Guide and Title Contenders Analysis

An in-depth preview of the 2025-26 Gallagher Premiership season, featuring club-by-club insights, key signings, and expert predictions for England's elite rugby union competition.

James Slipper to Make Rugby History as First Australian to Earn 150 Test Caps in Bledisloe Cup Clash
Rugby

James Slipper to Make Rugby History as First Australian to Earn 150 Test Caps in Bledisloe Cup Clash

Veteran prop James Slipper becomes Australia's first 150-cap rugby international ahead of crucial Bledisloe Cup opener, cementing his legacy as one of rugby union's most enduring forwards.

Clash of Titans: England and Canada Lock Horns in Historic Women's Rugby World Cup Final at Twickenham
Rugby

Clash of Titans: England and Canada Lock Horns in Historic Women's Rugby World Cup Final at Twickenham

Preview of the monumental Women's Rugby World Cup final between undefeated England and underdog Canada at sold-out Twickenham, featuring unchanged lineups and record-breaking attendance.

Owen Farrell's Redemption: Lions Captain Tackles Social Media Storm and Rugby Legacy
Rugby

Owen Farrell's Redemption: Lions Captain Tackles Social Media Storm and Rugby Legacy

British & Irish Lions captain Owen Farrell opens up about navigating social media toxicity, leadership challenges, and his rugby future in an exclusive interview ahead of historic Pasifika XV clash.

Northampton Saints Target Road Redemption to Challenge Premiership Elite in 2024-25 Campaign
Rugby

Northampton Saints Target Road Redemption to Challenge Premiership Elite in 2024-25 Campaign

Northampton Saints prioritize improving away performances as they prepare for the Premiership season, with new signings and tactical adjustments aiming to build on last year's European success.

Reviving Welsh Rugby: Pathways, Lions Redemption, and the Tandy Era
Rugby

Reviving Welsh Rugby: Pathways, Lions Redemption, and the Tandy Era

Exploring Wales' urgent need to rebuild rugby pathways, address Lions representation gaps, and navigate structural reforms under new head coach Steve Tandy. Insights from Tom Shanklin and players on Wales' rugby future.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.