Wallabies Face Lions in Injury-Hampered Series Opener in Australia

Wallabies icon Toutai Kefu has urged Australia's forwards to bring intensity and aggressive play in the upcoming series-opener against the British & Irish Lions, despite widespread predictions of a 3-0 series defeat. Kefu, who was part of Australia's victorious 2001 Lions series, sees the Wallabies' underdog status and the challenge of facing an undefeated Lions team as strong motivators. The Wallabies will miss key players including loose forward Rob Valetini, with the untested Nick Champion de Crespigny stepping into a crucial role, and Kefu calls for a fierce but disciplined approach. Kefu will also coach the First Nations-Pasifika XV in a tour match against the Lions but faced setbacks when Pete Samu, a key player, was barred from participating due to eligibility issues, which Kefu described as a disappointment and additional motivation for his team. The Lions have maintained strict eligibility rules for their matches, further intensifying the competitive atmosphere. Overall, Kefu emphasizes fighting spirit and resilience as essential for the Wallabies to defy expectations against a formidable Lions side.