The Rugby Football Union has confirmed that none of the British and Irish Lions’ English players will be released to play for the Barbarians in November.
This move ultimately ends the prospect of an unofficial ‘fourth Test’ against the All Blacks.
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“England’s players will be focusing on preparing for England’s matches ahead of the Old Mutual Wealth Series,” an RFU spokesperson told the BBC.
There were 10 Englishmen in the Lions’ 23-man squad that drew 15-15 with New Zealand at Eden Park in the third Test to draw the series 1-1.
The Barbarians face New Zealand at Twickenham on 4 November while Eddie Jones’ side play Argentina, Australia and Samoa in successive weekends in November.