Lions Bar Pete Samu, Stir Controversy in Melbourne

The British and Irish Lions have barred Wallabies backrower Pete Samu from playing for the First Nations and Pasifika XV in an upcoming match in Melbourne, citing his lack of Super Rugby participation this season. The move has sparked criticism from Australian sources and First Nations coach Toutai Kefu, who suggested the Lions were seeking to avoid a stronger opponent and were worried about losing. Samu had played against the Lions for an Invitational XV the previous week, adding to the controversy. The fixture was organized after the Melbourne Rebels collapsed, and the Lions maintain that Samu's exclusion follows tour agreements and is not a targeted block. In response to the eligibility debate, the Lions expanded their squad to prevent overworking their Test players. The incident has heightened tensions between the Lions and Australian rugby authorities ahead of their tour.