The 2021 British and Irish Lions tour could still be heading south this year with Australia reportedly offering to host the Series, according to Sunday Times rugby guru Stephen Jones in the UK.
Fans in the stands in South Africa is looking increasingly unlikely with the Lions supposedly giving themselves a mid-February deadline to make a decision on how to proceed.
A ‘home’ tour in the UK and Ireland had been floated as a solution as well as delaying the tour to South Africa to 2022.
Now, according to Jones, Australia has stepped forward with a third possible proposition.
Re our global exclusive re Lions tour versus Springboks in Australia. Solves way for of the problems than any other plan. Can report idea receiving high level support across rugby. Aus v France series in Aus same time. Huge profile.
— Stephen Jones (@stephenjones9) January 30, 2021
It is reported that Australia have offered to host the series Down Under, with profits split between South Africa and the Lions.
Warm-ups could be staged against South Africa teams or local Australian Super Rugby sides.
Exclusive @timessport. Lions Saviours. Australia offer to host Lions series between Springboks v Lions. Profits shared between two, Australia taking costs only. Provincial warm-ups either with SA or Aust SR teams. Existing slot, with fans! Easily best option!!
— Stephen Jones (@stephenjones9) January 30, 2021
Australia boasts a large South African and European expat community and has successfully managed the COVID-19 pandemic with stadium capacities increasing nationwide.
Only this week, Rugby Australia were applauded by incoming SANZAAR Chief Executive, Brendan Morris, for hosting the 2020 Tri Nations Series between New Zealand, Argentina and the Wallabies.
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