Picking the ultimate combined Australia-New Zealand team to face the British & Irish Lions in Adelaide

04/11/2025 11:19 AM

The Lions tour is synonymous with rival nations coming together in the pursuit of a greater goal, yet this Summer, the world famous tourists will be taking on a combined nation of their own. As the biggest names from England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland’s four provinces join forces in the Lions’ fabled red jersey, a unique opposition is banding together on the other side of the world.

On July 12th in Adelaide, the British & Irish Lions will battle in an exhibition match against a combined Australian and New Zealand side. Billed as ‘Invitational AU & NZ’ on the official Lions tour website, this Aussie-Kiwi alliance poses a special challenge to Andy Farrell’s squad. The two regular rugby rivals have put their Tasmanian grievances to one side, in the combined effort of chalking up the win and hurting the Lions’ pride ahead of the first Test in Brisbane.

Now, how much star-power the Wallabies and All Blacks will put forward into this combined ‘ANZAC’ side remains to be seen. Australia head coach Joe Schmidt would most likely want to keep his top talent within his Wallabies camp, to reduce the chance of any unexpected injuries and maintain his training synergy ahead of the opening Test match just five days later.

Similarly, the All Blacks will host France for a three-match Summer Test series this July. The first Test of the trilogy actually lands on the same date as the Lions’ battle with the AU-NZ team, which raises plenty of questions around which top All Blacks Scott Robertson will allow out of his camp. So, given the nature of the hectic Summer schedule, we have compiled two teams to take on the Lions.

The first side is the ultimate option, should Schmidt and Robertson go all guns blazing and throw their biggest and best at the incoming Lions. The second team is one for the realists, and will be coming to RUCK very soon. This will see the Wallabies and All Blacks selectors prioritise their own nations, and only give away those players that won’t be involved in any Test match action this Summer.

ULTIMATE XV: AU & NZ Invitational Team to face the Lions

BACK THREE

15. Will Jordan (New Zealand and Crusaders)

A dynamic force at fullback, Will Jordan has quickly become one of rugby’s most lethal finishers. He made an unforgettable debut with the All Blacks, lighting up the 2021 season with five tries against Tonga – a performance that nearly broke a national record. That same year, his stunning rise earned him the World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year accolade.

By April 2025, Jordan had scored an impressive 38 tries in just 41 tests. His domestic career began with Tasman Mako in 2017, where he helped secure a historic Mitre 10 Cup title in 2019. Since joining the Crusaders in 2018, his dazzling runs and clinical finishing have been key to their Super Rugby successes, contributing to championship wins in 2021 and 2022.

14. Mark Tele’a (New Zealand and Blues)

A dynamic and elusive winger, has quickly become one of New Zealand's most dangerous attacking threats. After starting his provincial career with North Harbour in 2016 and playing a key role in Tasman Mako’s back-to-back Mitre 10 Cup titles in 2020.

He joined the Blues, where his 2024 season saw him score nine tries and lead in carries and defenders beaten, helping secure the long-awaited Super Rugby title. Debuting for the All Blacks in 2022, Tele'a was part of the squad that finished as runners-up in the 2023 Rugby World Cup. By April 2025, he had earned 19 caps and 65 points, with his electrifying footwork and power making him a nightmare for defenders globally.

11. Marika Koroibete (Australia and Wild Knights)

Marika Koroibete's journey from a remote Fijian farm to rugby stardom is a testament to his blistering speed and raw power. Initially a promising sprinter, he made his mark in rugby league, debuting for the Wests Tigers in 2012 and later scoring 34 tries in 58 appearances for the Melbourne Storm, and then also representing Fiji in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.

In 2017, he transitioned to rugby union with the Melbourne Rebels and became a key figure for the Wallabies. Now playing for Japan’s Saitama Wild Knights, Koroibete helped secure league titles in 2021 and 2022. With 59 caps and 20 tries for Australia by April 2025, the two-time John Eales Medalist (2019, 2022) is renowned for his explosive pace, powerful runs, and fearless defense, cementing his place as one of the modern game’s most complete wingers.

CENTRES

13. Joseph Sua’ali’i (Australia and Waratahs)

Joseph Sua’ali’i, one of Australia's most gifted young athletes, has already made a significant impact in both rugby codes. Born in Penrith in 2003, his athleticism was clear from an early age, even setting the Australian high jump record for 12-year-olds. He debuted for the Sydney Roosters in rugby league at just 17 in 2021, going on to score 29 tries, 75 goals, and 266 points over three seasons.

Sua’ali’i also represented Samoa in the 2022 Rugby League World Cup and featured in State of Origin for New South Wales. In 2023, he transitioned to rugby union, joining the NSW Waratahs and making his Wallabies debut in 2024. By the end of the year, he had earned four caps, showcasing his versatility and physicality in the outside centre role, and establishing himself as a future cornerstone of Australian rugby.

12. Jordie Barrett (New Zealand and Leinster)

Jordie Barrett, renowned for his versatility and all-around skills, has become one of rugby's most adaptable and valuable players, as he blends physicality with agility to excel in multiple positions, including fullback, fly-half, wing, and centre. After a standout season with Canterbury in 2016, he played 111 games for the Hurricanes, scoring 794 points over seven years.

Barrett debuted for the All Blacks in 2017 and, by April 2025, had earned 68 caps and 297 points, including 25 tries. He contributed to New Zealand’s bronze in 2019 and silver in 2023 at the World Cup. Known for his kicking game, defense, and high-ball skills, Barrett remains a key player for both Leinster and the All Blacks.

HALFBACKS

10. Beauden Barrett (New Zealand and Blues)

Widely regarded as one of rugby's finest playmakers, Beauden Barrett has built a legendary career. Debuting for Taranaki in 2010, he helped them win the Ranfurly Shield before becoming a key figure for the Hurricanes from 2011 to 2019, playing a crucial role in their first Super Rugby title in 2016.

In 2020, he joined the Blues, continuing his Super Rugby success. On the international stage, Barrett debuted for the All Blacks in 2012 and, by November 2024, had earned 123 caps and scored 772 points. A two-time World Rugby Player of the Year (2016, 2017), Barrett was instrumental in New Zealand’s 2015 Rugby World Cup win, scoring a try in the final. Known for his speed, tactical kicking, and playmaking, Barrett's versatility as a fly-half and fullback has solidified his legacy as one of rugby's greatest players.

9. TJ Perenara (New Zealand and Black Rams)

TJ Perenara, a dynamic and experienced scrum-half, has been a key figure for both the Hurricanes and the All Blacks throughout his distinguished career. Born in 1992 into a sports-focused family, Perenara debuted for Wellington in 2010, helping them win the ITM Cup in 2011, before joining the Hurricanes in 2012, where he became the franchise's most capped player with 163 appearances.

Perenara played a pivotal role in their 2016 Super Rugby championship win and holds the record for most tries by a half-back in Super Rugby history with 63. Debuting for the All Blacks in 2014, Perenara earned 89 caps and scored 16 tries, contributing to their 2015 Rugby World Cup victory and third-place finish in 2019. Known for his quick service, sharp game sense, and defensive acumen, Perenara’s leadership has been vital to his teams’ success. After a decade in New Zealand, he signed with Japan’s Black Rams Tokyo in 2024, continuing his international career.

FRONT ROW

1. Ethan de Groot (New Zealand and Highlanders)

Ethan de Groot moved to New Zealand from Gold Coast, Australia at age two and now represents the All Blacks internationally through his ancestry. He began his rugby career with Southland in 2018, debuting in the Bunnings NPC, before joining the Highlanders in 2020, where he made his Super Rugby debut against the Chiefs. De Groot quickly made an impact, helping the Highlanders reach the 2021 Trans-Tasman final, and earned his first All Blacks cap in 2021 against Fiji.

He was part of the New Zealand squad that reached the 2023 Rugby World Cup final and contributed to consecutive Rugby Championship titles in 2022 and 2023. Known for his scrummaging and work around the field, de Groot's commitment is matched by his work ethic away from rugby, honed during a two-year building apprenticeship. Despite a neck injury sidelining him for the 2024 Rugby Championship, he remains a key figure for both his provincial team and the national side.

2. Codie Taylor (New Zealand and Crusaders)

Codie Taylor hails from a rugby family with a strong heritage, including being the great-great-grandson of All Black Walter Pringle. Debuting for the Crusaders in 2013, Taylor became a key player and vice-captain, contributing to their Super Rugby titles in 2017, 2018, and 2019. In the 2023 season, he was the second equal top try-scorer and remains the Crusaders' top try-scoring forward.

Internationally, Taylor debuted for the All Blacks in 2015 and was part of their 2015 World Cup-winning squad, later contributing to multiple Rugby Championship victories. After the 2023 World Cup, he took a six-month sabbatical to focus on family, returning in 2024 and becoming an advocate for player well-being, calling for more breaks to ensure career sustainability. His leadership and skill have cemented his place as a key figure in New Zealand rugby.

3. Taniela Tupou (Australia and Waratahs)

Taniela Tupou, known as the “Tongan Thor,” he first gained attention at Auckland’s Sacred Heart College in 2014, scoring three tries in a match and earning his nickname. Choosing to represent Australia, he joined the Queensland Reds in 2014 and debuted in Super Rugby in 2016, making 88 appearances and scoring 24 tries. After a stint with the Melbourne Rebels in 2024, he joined the NSW Waratahs in 2025.

Tupou debuted for the Wallabies in 2017, represented them at the 2019 Rugby World Cup, and earned his 50th test cap in 2023. His achievements include winning the National Rugby Championship with Queensland Country in 2017 and playing a key role in the Reds’ 2021 Super Rugby championship. Known for his humility and community engagement, Tupou's journey from a schoolboy sensation to an international rugby stalwart highlights his dedication and passion, making him a valuable asset to both his club and country.

LOCKS

4. Scott Barrett (New Zealand and Crusaders)

The third of four rugby-playing brothers, including aformentioned All Blacks stars Beauden and Jordie, Scott Barrett began his professional career in 2014 with the Crusaders, becoming a key figure in their Super Rugby championships and contributing to Taranaki’s 2023 Bunnings NPC title. He debuted for the All Blacks in 2016, scoring a try, and represented New Zealand in both the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups, helping the team to a runner-up finish.

Barrett was appointed All Blacks captain in June 2024 and has won multiple Super Rugby titles, Rugby Championship titles, and was named in the World Rugby Men's XV of the Year in 2023. Known for his strategic mind and calm leadership, Barrett continues to inspire on and off the field, where he enjoys fishing, farming, and family life.

5. Will Skelton (Australia and La Rochelle)

A towering Australian lock forward, Will Skelton stands at 6 feet 8 inches and weighs 135 kg. After moving to Australia at a young age and transitioning from rugby league to rugby union at 15, Skelton debuted for the Waratahs in 2013 and was integral to their 2014 Super Rugby championship win.

He later moved to Saracens in 2017, where he won two Premiership titles and a European Champions Cup before joining La Rochelle in 2020. Success followed Skelton’s whereabouts, as he helped Stade Rochalais secure back-to-back Champions Cups in 2022 and 2023. Skelton debuted for Australia in 2014 and captained the Wallabies in the 2023 Rugby World Cup, leading them to the quarter-finals.

BACK ROW

6. Rob Valentini (Australia and Brumbies)

Valetini debuted for the Brumbies in 2018 and immediately became a key figure in their forward pack. In 2023, he was named Super Rugby Player of the Year and earned the John Eales Medal as Wallabies Player of the Year. Valetini debuted for Australia in 2019 and played a pivotal role in the 2023 Rugby World Cup, starting in all four matches as the Wallabies reached the quarter-finals.

In 2024, he made history by winning consecutive John Eales Medals, joining Israel Folau and Michael Hooper as only the third player to have achieved the feat. Known for his ball-carrying, defensive resilience, and leadership, Valetini continues to be a standout in Australian rugby, while also inspiring future generations of players through his off-field initiatives.

7. Sam Cane (New Zealand and Tokyo Sungoliath)

Cane began his career with Bay of Plenty in 2010 before joining the Chiefs in 2011, where he made 150 appearances and co-captained the team starting in 2018. In 2023, he signed a three-year contract with Tokyo Sungoliath in Japan.

Cane debuted for the All Blacks in 2012, captained them from 2020 until handing the armband on the Scott Barrett. Cane was a key figure in the All Blacks’ 2015 Rugby World Cup victory and 2023 runner-up finish. Renowned for his consistency, Cane was often compared to All Blacks legend and New Zealand icon Richie McCaw, and could well be tempted out of international retirement for one last hit out against the iconic British & Irish Lions.

8. Ardie Savea (New Zealand and Moana Pasifika)

The younger brother of former All Blacks winger Julian Savea, Ardie began his career with Wellington in 2012 before joining the Hurricanes in 2013, contributing to their 2016 Super Rugby title. After a stint with Japan’s Kobelco Kobe Steelers in 2023, he returned to New Zealand in 2025 to play for Moana Pasifika.

Savea debuted for the All Blacks in 2016 and captained them during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, where he was named World Rugby Player of the Year. Known for his on-field brilliance and advocacy for mental health, Savea also runs a clothing line with his wife, Saskia. His journey from Wellington to rugby stardom reflects his dedication, resilience, and commitment to making a positive impact on and off the field.

REPLACEMENTS:

16. Matt Faessler (Australia and Queensland Reds)

17. Angus Bell (Australia and Waratahs)

18. Tyrel Lomax (New Zealand and Hurricanes)

19. Patrick Tuipulotu (New Zealand and Blues)

20. Wallace Sititi (New Zealand and Chiefs)

21. Nic White (Australia and Western Force)

22. Noah Lolesio (Australia and Brumbies)

23. Len Ikitau (Australia and Brumbies)

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