The Lions Rugby organization has announced that players who choose to join the R360 league will be excluded from selection for the upcoming women’s tour to New Zealand in 2027. This decision aligns with the stance taken by the national rugby unions of both England and Ireland, among others, which declared last month that participation in the R360 league would make players ineligible for international matches.
In a statement, the Lions emphasized the significance of the 2027 tour, marking it as the first-ever women’s tour for the team. “This is a historic moment for women’s rugby, and we want it to be the best it can be,” the statement read. The Lions aim to ensure that players eligible for selection are competing in established leagues, which provide clarity regarding match schedules and calendars.
Details on the Upcoming Tour
The 2027 tour will see the Lions compete in at least five matches, including three Test matches against the formidable New Zealand team. With the tour scheduled just over a year and a half away, the Lions are keen on maintaining a high standard for their squad.
The men’s Lions team is also scheduled to tour New Zealand in 2029, but the emphasis on the women’s tour represents a pivotal moment for the sport. The commitment to excluding players from R360 reflects a broader strategy to ensure competitive integrity and player commitment to traditional rugby structures.
As rugby continues to evolve, the Lions’ decision underlines the importance of established competitions in shaping the future of the sport. This initiative aims to enhance the quality and prestige of women’s rugby, paving the way for future generations of athletes.
