British and Irish Lions women prepare for first New Zealand tour
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 11, 2026, 3:14 AM
Last updated Sep 11, 2026
The British and Irish Lions women’s team marks one year until the opening Test of its inaugural tour against the Black Ferns. The side faces New Zealand in a three-Test series beginning September 11, 2027, at Auckland’s Go Media Stadium. Head coach Jo Yapp leads the team, with squad selection scheduled for May following the Women’s Six Nations. The itinerary includes matches in Whangarei, Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, and Christchurch. While the tour is viewed as a landmark for the sport, some observers cite concerns regarding visibility and competition from the nearby men’s Rugby World Cup, which begins in Australia shortly after the series concludes. The Lions are currently finalizing backroom staff appointments to avoid conflicts with upcoming national team commitments.
- •The first Test against the Black Ferns takes place September 11, 2027, in Auckland.
- •Jo Yapp serves as the first head coach for the Lions women’s team.
- •The tour spans five venues across New Zealand including Whangarei, Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, and Christchurch.
- •Squad selection is expected in May 2027 after the completion of the Six Nations.
- 3:14 AMYahoo Sports — One year until first women's Lions Test - will it be a success?
- 3:14 AMBBC Sport — One year until first women's Lions Test - will it be a success?
"With the first British and Irish Lions women's Test 12 months away, BBC Sport looks at how preparations are going and whether the tour will be a success.
"With the first British and Irish Lions women's Test 12 months away, BBC Sport looks at how preparations are going and whether the tour will be a success.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 11, 2026, 3:14 AMOne year until first women's Lions Test - will it be a success?
With the first British and Irish Lions women's Test 12 months away, BBC Sport looks at how preparations are going and whether the tour will be a success.
- BBC SportSep 11, 2026, 3:14 AMOne year until first women's Lions Test - will it be a success?
With the first British and Irish Lions women's Test 12 months away, BBC Sport looks at how preparations are going and whether the tour will be a success.
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