Ben Calveley expected a competitive Force side to face the British & Irish Lions who could open their tour to other countries such as France in the future

Verbal jousting on British and Irish Lions tours is as much a part of the deal as the rugby itself - and the mind games started anew in recent days, writes Tom English.

Pre-tour agreement states Super Rugby opponents must be at full strength despite Australia’s head coach being keen to ‘safeguard’ players

The British and Irish Lions have warned Australia the Wallabies' superstars must appear for their Super Rugby sides in the tourists' pre-Test series matches.

Ben Calveley expected a competitive Force side to face the British & Irish Lions who could open their tour to other countries such as France in the future

Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt has insisted Australia are adhering to the tours agreement and do not have to release every player for franchise games v the Lions