American Marconi Wireless News - Kiss to coach Australia-New Zealand combined XV against Lions

Kiss, who will succeed Joe Schmidt at the Wallabies next year, will have former All Blacks head coach Ian Foster as an assistant for the clash which takes place a week before Australia's first Test against the Lions in Brisbane.

Kiss said it would be an honour to be in charge when Australia and New Zealand field a combined side for the first time since 1989.

"It's a privilege to be able to lead the coaching group for the combined AUNZ Invitational XV. The British and Irish Lions are one of world sport's most renowned teams," said Kiss, the current Queensland Reds coach.

"I'm looking forward to working with a coach like Ian."

Wallabies great and former Tonga head coach Toutai Kefu will take charge of a First Nations and Pasifika XV against the Lions in Melbourne on July 22, it was also announced Monday.

"I feel honoured," said Kefu, who is currently coaching in Japan and spent seven years previously working with Tonga.

"I'm looking forward to getting together as a group in July and representing our people with a strong performance."

The British and Irish Lions begin their nine-match Australia tour against Western Force in Perth on June 28.

They will play three Tests against Australia in Brisbane on July 19, at the MCG in Melbourne on July 26 and in Sydney on August 3.

F.Dubois--AMWN