1989 British Lions tour to Australia


In 1989, the British Lions toured Australia for the first time since 1971. Unlike previous tours to Australia, the Lions did not play any matches in New Zealand, this being the first Australia-only tour since 1899. The side was captained by Finlay Calder.
The Lions suffered a 30–12 defeat in the first test in Sydney on 1 July, then their heaviest defeat by Australia. For the second and third tests, changes included Mike Teague, recovered from injury, at blindside flanker; Rob Andrew replacing Craig Chalmers at fly-half; and Jeremy Guscott and Scott Hastings coming into the centre positions. The team became the only Lions team ever to come from 1–0 down to win a series, winning the second test in Brisbane 19–12 and the third test in Sydney 19–18. Teague was named player of the series.

Results

Squad

Backs

NameHome countryClubNotes
Rob AndrewWasps
Gary ArmstrongJedforest
Craig ChalmersMelrose
Tony ClementSwansea
Paul DeanSt Mary's College
John DevereuxBridgend
Peter DodsGala
Ieuan EvansLlanelli
Jeremy GuscottBathreplaced injured Will Carling
Mike HallBridgend
Gavin HastingsLondon Scottish
Scott HastingsWatsonians
Robert JonesSwansea
Brendan MullinLondon Irish
Chris OtiWasps
Will CarlingHarlequinsSelected but withdrew due to injury
Rory UnderwoodLeicester and RAF

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