Four Scottish internationals from Glasgow Warriors and Edinburgh Rugby have been named in the matchday squad for the British & Irish Lions’ first fixture of the 2025 tour, a highly anticipated clash against Argentina at the Aviva Stadium this Friday, 20 June.
The historic 1888 Cup match marks the beginning of the Lions’ tour to Australia and the first meeting with Argentina in 20 years. The sides last met in 2005, drawing 25-25 in Cardiff.
Tuipulotu and Cummings Earn First Lions Call-Ups
Sione Tuipulotu and Scott Cummings will make their British & Irish Lions debuts in Dublin, representing Glasgow Warriors. Tuipulotu, one of the standout midfielders in world rugby, starts at outside centre (13) after a sensational season that saw him earn multiple Player of the Match accolades and captain Scotland in the 2024 Autumn Nations Series.
Cummings, a key figure in the Glasgow pack since 2015, is named on the bench. His consistent form during the 2024/25 campaign — where he made 16 appearances across all competitions — has been rewarded with selection for his first-ever Lions tour.
Van der Merwe Returns, Schoeman Set for Debut
Edinburgh Rugby also sees two of its top talents involved. Duhan van der Merwe returns from injury to start on the wing, bringing his trademark pace and power back to the international stage. The Scotland winger had been sidelined since March with an ankle injury.
Joining him is Pierre Schoeman, who is set to earn his first Lions cap from the bench. The loosehead prop has long been a fan favourite for his scrummaging strength and tireless work rate.
Lions Tour Kicks Off with Dublin Showdown
Friday’s fixture in Dublin is the opening act in a blockbuster 2025 Lions Tour of Australia, which features ten matches including a three-Test series against the Wallabies. After facing Argentina, the Lions will take on Super Rugbyfranchises including the Western Force, Queensland Reds, NSW Waratahs, and ACT Brumbies, as well as an Invitational Australia/New Zealand XV and a First Nations & Pasifika XV.
The Test series kicks off on 19 July at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, followed by Tests at the MCG in Melbourne and Accor Stadium in Sydney.
Where to Watch
The British & Irish Lions vs Argentina kicks off at 8pm (BST) on Friday, 20 June, at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, giving fans a first glimpse of the touring squad in action.
Key Players to Watch:
- Sione Tuipulotu (Glasgow Warriors) – Centre
- Scott Cummings (Glasgow Warriors) – Lock (Replacements)
- Duhan van der Merwe (Edinburgh Rugby) – Wing
- Pierre Schoeman (Edinburgh Rugby) – Prop (Replacements)
