The Lions Tour Of New Zealand Just Got A Whole Lot More Interesting

Head Coach Steve Hansen has confirmed that members of his All Blacks squad will be made available for two warm up matches of the British & Irish Lions tour of New Zealand this summer.

Warren Gatland’s men take on the Auckland Blues and the Canterbury Crusaders on the 7th and 10th June respectively in their opening warm-up games, with this news meaning the likes of Israel Dagg, Kieran Read, Owen Franks, Jerome Kaine, Sonny Bill Williams and many more could all feature.

The first Test takes place in Auckland on June 24th, with Warren Gatland’s men now knowing they will not have an easy run up to the main event. The tourists are set to have a stacked undercard that will surely delight all fans expecting to attend the games.

“That’s all been sorted. The first two Super Rugby games before we assemble they’ll all be available. After that they’ll be with us,” said Hansen (via Stuff.co.nz).

Crusaders boss Scott Robertson welcomed the news, stating it’s going to be a very special event..

“To have the All Blacks playing on top it’s going to be a pretty special evening. It’s history making.

“They’ve got a bit of time off afterwards to get themselves right for that first test match and it comes in our bye so there’s a lot of things going for us. As a whole group it’s something to look forward to.”

Hansen will assemble his World Champions the day after the game in Christchurch on June 11th.