First Nations & Pasifika XV vs. British & Irish Lions Prediction, Players, Odds: 22/7/2025

This historic clash marks the first-ever assembly of a combined First Nations & Pasifika XV against the touring British & Irish Lions. The fixture aims to celebrate cultural diversity and provide a high-intensity challenge before the Lions’ second Test. The Lions arrive with momentum, while the home side brings pride and physicality to the fore.

First Nations & Pasifika XV Overview

Coached by Toutai Kefu and captained by celebrated Wallaby Kurtley Beale, this invitational side includes a mix of Indigenous Australian and Pacific Islander talent. The squad features powerful forwards like Seru Uru and Rob Leota, combining physical set-piece strength with flair in the backline from players such as Beale and Brandon Paenga‑Amosa. The squad is keen to showcase their cultural roots and play with intensity.

British & Irish Lions Overview

Having dominated every tour match so far, the Lions are fielding a near-full-strength squad ahead of the Test series. New call-ups—Rory Sutherland, Ewan Ashman, and Darcy Graham—have bolstered the tight five and backline options. With momentum behind them and strong depth, coach Andy Farrell will seek a disciplined, structured performance that balances aggression with control.

Form Path Summary

• First Nations & Pasifika XV: Formed specifically for this occasion, the side is hungry to perform and display their heritage and pride.
• Lions: Five successive wins on tour, backing depth and cohesion across the squad, looking to sharpen up before the second Test.

Recent Form & Stats

Lions tour form: W–W–W–W–W — formidable results from all angles.

Pasifika XV: Freshly assembled but driven, with high-energy training and a fierce will to perform.

Key Players to Watch

First Nations & Pasifika XV

• Kurtley Beale (Captain): A cultural leader and creative spark, his experience will guide the team’s overall shape.
• Rob Leota (Back row): A motor in defense and link play, set to make an immediate impact in the loose.

British & Irish Lions

• Maro Itoje: Commanding in the line-out and defense, he’ll set the standard up front.
• Darcy Graham: Fresh legs on the wing; his pace could exploit any gaps out wide.

What to Watch Live

• Physical set-piece: Can the Pasifika XV stand up to the Lions’ structured scrums and line-outs?
• Tempo and turnovers: Lions aim to recycle quickly; Pasifika will disrupt with ferocity.
• Bench impact: Depth and impact players after 50 minutes could shift momentum.

Where to Watch Live

Kickoff is at 7:45 PM AEST. Coverage will be available on Stan Sport and selected Rugby Australia platforms.

Betting Insight

• Match Odds: Lions strong favorites
• Handicap: Lions –12
• Total Points: Around 55.5

Expect a fast, physical clash. The Lions’ cohesion makes for a safe bet, but the total score may stay below projections due to defensive intensity.

Bet Summary: Back the Lions on handicap and look for a competitive total under.

Prediction

The Lions’ unbeaten tour form and structural superiority should prevail. However, the First Nations & Pasifika XV will lay down a fierce cultural and physical statement, keeping it tight early on. This First Nations & Pasifika XV vs Lions prediction leans toward the tourists—but expect a powerful display of passion and pride from both sides.

• Predicted Winner: British & Irish Lions
• Expected Scoreline: Lions 32 – Pasifika XV 18
• Tactical X‑Factor: The Lions’ ability to win tight exchanges in the forwards and control breakdown speed will disperse Pasifika momentum.