Wallabies Release Faessler, Paisami to Reds for Lions Tour Match

Australia has released Wallabies players Matt Faessler and Hunter Paisami to rejoin the Queensland Reds for their match against the British & Irish Lions on July 2, amid tensions over player release policies during the Lions tour. While Faessler and Paisami will play for the Reds, six other Reds players, including Wallabies captain Harry Wilson, remain with the national team to prepare for a warm-up test against Fiji on July 6. Lions CEO Ben Calveley emphasized the importance of Wallabies players participating in provincial matches to maintain the competitiveness of the tour, but Australia coach Joe Schmidt highlighted the strategic use of less experienced players for some Lions tour matches and noted the Reds' strong talent pool. The Lions are scheduled to play several Super Rugby sides, including the Western Force and the Reds, before the first test against Australia on July 19. Wallabies player Donaldson expressed mixed feelings about missing the Lions match but acknowledged the priority of national team preparations. The upcoming matches provide a rare and intense challenge for Australian provincial teams, with Lions assistant coach Andrew Goodman expecting heightened intensity and commitment.