Iconic 42,000 capacity stadium where Lions played to be DEMOLISHED
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The Gabba, Brisbane's historic cricket ground, has hosted matches since 1895—but its days are numbered.
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The venue is set to be demolished ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, with a cutting-edge 60,000-seater stadium planned for the Victoria Park area.
Why not renovate?
Initial plans to modernise The Gabba were scrapped due to spiralling costs, paving the way for complete redevelopment. Once the stadium is torn down, the site will be transformed into residential housing.
A graveyard for England
For England's cricketers, The Gabba has been a nightmare. They haven't won there since 1986, suffering seven defeats in their last nine visits—including a nine-wicket thrashing in 2021.
Lions’ success down under
The Gabba also played a key role in British & Irish Lions history, hosting matches on the 1950 and 2001 tours. The Lions emerged victorious both times, winning 19-6 and 29-13 respectively.
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"Fly-half Says 'Nah' – Four Big Names Out of 2025 Lions Tour
The 2025 British & Irish Lions tour kicks off in Australia on July 19, with a three-Test series against the Wallabies. Andy Farrell's squad will be without several big names due to injury, retirement, or club commitments.
1. Ollie Lawrence – Achilles injury ends Lions dream
England centre Ollie Lawrence was widely tipped to make Farrell's Lions squad before suffering a devastating injury. The Bath star ruptured his left Achilles tendon just nine minutes into England's 47-24 Six Nations win over Italy, ruling him out for up to a year.
A Premiership Player of the Season in 2023, Lawrence had become a key figure for Steve Borthwick's England. His explosive running, defensive solidity, and hard-carrying ability made him a strong candidate for the tour. However, with the Lions series beginning in just over three months, his injury has ended any chance of selection.
Lawrence expressed his disappointment on social media: “Lost for words… That's not how I imagined my season to end! The comeback is always greater than the setback.”
Surprise Fact: Lawrence was once in Aston Villa's football academy before choosing rugby.
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