The British & Irish Lions are set to begin their three-Test series against Australia on Saturday, July 19th, at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, with kick-off at 11am Irish time. The series is highly anticipated, with the Lions aiming to replicate their 1904 victory and potentially achieve a series clean sweep, a feat they haven't accomplished in Australia since then. Team selections have seen notable changes due to injuries, with key players like Owen Farrell and Garry Ringrose ruled out, leading to call-ups such as Jamie George and Darcy Graham. Andy Farrell has named an initial squad with eight Irish players, and his team is expected to face a strategic challenge from Joe Schmidt’s Wallabies, who have been preparing with limited warm-up matches, including a narrow victory over Fiji. The series is viewed as a critical opportunity for Australian rugby to revive its declining fortunes, which have been impacted by financial struggles, poor recent results, and competition from other sports like AFL and rugby league. The Wallabies' prospects hinge on their physicality, especially their forward pack led by Rob Valetini and Will Skelton, with hopes pinned on their strength to counter the Lions’ skill and athleticism. The series could serve as a catalyst for rugby union's growth in Australia, with the country hosting the men's and women's World Cups in 2027 and 2029, and the Olympic Sevens in 2032. The Lions’ tour is seen as a chance to restore national pride and boost the sport’s profile, amid concerns about the sport’s future in Australia due to financial and competitive challenges.