The British and Irish Lions have secured an early victory ahead of their tour, as Rugby Australia officials have made concessions following a dispute over player availability.

The Lions expressed concerns that Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt intended to keep key Australia players in training camp leading up to the three-Test series against the Lions, which begins on July 19.

This was despite a prior agreement stipulating that both teams would aim to field their strongest possible lineups.

Following intense discussions, Australia has agreed to release two players to their club, the Queensland Reds.Hooker Matt Faessler and center hunter Paisami are now expected to play against the Lions in Brisbane next Wednesday.

This decision follows the release of five Western Force players to participate in the tour’s opening match against the Lions this weekend.

Lions Win Early Battle

“It’s exciting,” Lions assistant coach Andrew Goodman said. “Hunter is a great player…the level of intensity is going to be through the roof.”

“It’s exciting,” Lions assistant coach Andrew Goodman said. “Hunter is a great player. If you look at the Force players who’ve been released, I’ve watched a lot of their rugby this year and they’ve got an exciting group.

“if you watch a Force team or a Reds team during Super Rugby, it’s not an indication of what you’re going to get against a Lions team.

“It’s a once-in-a-life opportunity for most of those guys, so the level of intensity is going to be through the roof.”

Critics have suggested that the tour would benefit more if the best Wallabies players are in peak condition for the three-Test series next month.

Risking those players now could potentially harm Australia, given their perceived lack of squad depth.

Wallabies players such as Ben donaldson and Tate McDermott have not been released for club duty, reportedly to ensure they remain fit.

“Any game you get to play against the Lions team is pretty cool,” Donaldson said.

“I’m really excited to watch the Force boys play this weekend – we’re in camp now, preparing for this Fiji test next week.”