All Blacks & Wallabies in talks to revive Anzac concept

The Wallabies and the All Blacks are reportedly in talks to take on the British and Irish Lions in front of 100,000 fans at the MCG.

For the first time since 1989, rugby’s Anzacs concept is set to be revived for the 2025 Lions tour of Australia.

Rugby Australia chairman Hamish McLennan told the Daily Mail: “We’ve talked to the Kiwis about hosting an Anzac team against the Lions in 2025 and they’re considering the idea.

“I’m in no doubt it would be a belter and we’d sell the MCG out with 100,000 fans.

“The best of the Wallabies and the All Blacks against the Lions would create enormous global coverage.”

In July 1989 at Ballymore, an Anzacs side heavily made up of Australian players lost 19-15 to the Lions.

Twelve Wallabies – including Michael Lynagh, Nick Farr-Jones, David Campese and Simon Poidevin – were part of the Anzacs’ starting 15.

Only three All Blacks made the 15 - Kieran Crowley, Steve McDowell and Frano Botica - on that occasion after several players withdrew from the match.