British And Irish Lions Tour To South Africa
If you’re a rugby fan, you’re probably gearing up for the 2021 British and Irish Lions Tour to South Africa. The tour, which takes place every four years, pits the best rugby players from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales against the top South African team in a series of games that are sure to be thrilling. This year’s tour has been eagerly anticipated, with fans hoping to see some of the world’s top rugby players in action once again. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at everything you need to know about the 2021 British and Irish Lions Tour to South Africa.
History of the British and Irish Lions Tour
The British and Irish Lions Tour began in 1888, when a group of players from England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales traveled to Australia and New Zealand to play rugby. Since then, the tour has taken place every four years, with the Lions visiting countries such as South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand to play the best teams in the world. In South Africa, the Lions have a strong record, winning 17 of their 46 Test matches against the Springboks.
The 2021 Tour
The 2021 British and Irish Lions Tour to South Africa will take place from July 3 to August 7, with a total of eight matches scheduled. The tour will kick off with a game against the Emirates Lions in Johannesburg, followed by matches against the Cell C Sharks, South Africa ‘A’, and the Stormers. The three-Test series against the Springboks will take place on July 24, July 31, and August 7, all in different stadiums across the country. The tour will end with a match against the DHL Stormers.
The Teams
The British and Irish Lions team is made up of players from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, selected by the head coach. The team is only assembled every four years, and players from all four countries compete for a spot on the squad. The South African team, known as the Springboks, is the current reigning World Cup champions, having won the tournament in 2019. The Springboks have a strong team and will be a tough opponent for the Lions.
The Host Country
South Africa is a country with a rich history and culture, and is famous for its wildlife, stunning landscapes and beautiful beaches. The country is also home to some of the best rugby stadiums in the world, including Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg and Newlands Stadium in Cape Town. Visitors to South Africa will have plenty to do between matches, with opportunities to go on safari, visit museums and historical sites, and experience the local cuisine.
The Impact of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the tour, with travel restrictions and safety protocols in place to keep players and fans safe. Fans who are unable to travel to South Africa for the games will be able to follow the tour from home, with all matches to be broadcast on television and online.
Final Thoughts
The 2021 British and Irish Lions Tour to South Africa promises to be an exciting event, with some of the world’s best rugby players competing against one another. Whether you’re a die-hard rugby fan or just tuning in for the first time, there’s no denying the thrill of watching these athletes in action. So mark your calendars for July 3 and get ready to cheer on your favorite team!