First Nations & Pasifika XV
| Full name | First Nations & Pasifika XV |
|---|---|
| Union | Australian Rugby Union |
| Founded | 2025 |
| Coach(es) | Toutai Kefu (2025) |
First Nations & Pasifika XV is a newly formed Australian rugby union team set to take on the British & Irish Lions during their 2025 tour of Australia.[1]
The side was formed to replace the disbanded Melbourne Rebels side, to maintain a 9-match tour for the Lions.[2]
The team will be made up of indigenous Australian and Pacific Islands heritage players, with the match scheduled to take place on 22 July 2025 at the Docklands Stadium in Melbourne.
On 19 May, former Wallabies forward and Tonga head coach Toutai Kefu was named head coach,[3] whilst on 26 May, Glen Ella, Sekope Kepu, Simon Raiwalui and Tana Umaga were named assistants.[4]
See also
References
- ^ "Foster announced in AU/NZ coaching staff, First Nations Pasifika game confirmed for Lions Series". Rugby Australia. 20 March 2025. Retrieved 26 May 2025.
- ^ "Lions to face indigenous-heritage team in Australia". BBC Sport. 20 March 2025. Retrieved 26 May 2025.
- ^ "Kiss unveiled as AUNZ coach, Kefu to steer First Nations & Pasifika XV". Rugby Australia. 19 May 2025. Retrieved 26 May 2025.
- ^ "First Nations & Pasifika XV coaching staff confirmed". Rugby Australia. 26 May 2025. Retrieved 26 May 2025.