British and Irish Lions

The Welsh region have chosen the world-famous invitational XV as their first opponents following their decision to vacate their current Stradey Park ground.

The match is set to take place on January 31 of next year, with former Wales skipper Kingsley Jones set to coach the Ba-baas.
"We believe this will be a fitting way to celebrate our new home, and to bring something extra special to our supporters and members this season to thank them for their continued commitment to our rugby region," said Scarlets chief executive Stuart Gallacher.

"We are hoping for a mix of some of the world's top rugby players, from both northern and southern hemispheres, in what should be a great game of rugby and a memorable occasion."

Parc y Scarlets is costing £23 million and will have a capacity of 15,000 when it opens in four months time.

Qantas Wallabies head coach Robbie Deans says Quade Cooper could still line up against the Lions despite missing out on his 25-man squad this morning.

The Waratahs upset the odds by beating Super Rugby leaders the Brumbies 28-22, but the game came at a huge cost to Qantas Wallabies coach Robbie Deans.

Lions skipper Sam Warburton says the lessons he and his Welsh colleagues learnt in Australia last summer will stand them in good stead for their return visit with Britain and Ireland's elite next month.