British and Irish Lions

Having already lined up fixtures against Wales, Scotland and England this autumn, South Africa are considering adding a fourth Test match against Ireland to that list.

The World Champions, who are already scheduled to play three Test matches on their UK tour this November, are looking at the possibility of taking on Ireland in the United Arab Emirates prior to their clash with Wales on November 8.

If confirmed, the match would give Lions coach Ian McGeechan the opportunity to watch all four Home Unions in action against the Springboks ahead of the 2009 summer tour.

The proposed fixture would also be new Ireland coach Declan Kidney's first game in charge of his country, with forwards coach Gert Smal beginning his introduction to Irish rugby against his South African compatriots.

Confirmed autumn fixtures involving South Africa

November 8 Wales vs South Africa
November 15 Scotland vs South Africa
November 22 England vs South Africa

Ireland vs South Africa is currently awaiting approval from the IRB

The British & Irish Lions will dust themselves down after losing their unbeaten record to the Brumbies and be back at work in a positive frame of mind from Wednesday, according to 2009 Test full back Rob Kearney.

With Tuesday's trip to Canberra next on the agenda for The British & Irish Lions, we take a look back at their last clash with the Brumbies, a match that went right down to the wire.