The third Test between the British and Irish Lions and Australia descended into chaos on Saturday after severe weather forced play to be suspended — and several fans invaded the pitch in defiance of warnings.
The match, held in Sydney, was brought to a sudden halt following a lightning strike in the area, triggering safety protocols that sent players from both sides back to their dressing rooms.
Spectators had been clearly warned that entering the pitch would lead to serious consequences, including significant fines and potential legal action.
But that didn’t stop a few supporters from rushing onto the field as the storm rolled in.
The third Test between the British and Irish Lions and Australia descended into chaos on Saturday after severe weather forced play to be suspended — and several fans invaded the pitch in defiance of warnings
|SKY
Tensions were already high moments before the delay, following a fiery on-field clash.
A 20-man melee broke out between players from both sides after Lions second-row James Ryan suffered an accidental blow to the head from Australian lock Will Skelton’s knee.
Ryan had to be stretchered off the field after receiving medical attention, though he managed to give a thumbs-up to the crowd as he was carried away — a reassuring sign amid worrying scenes.
Australia held an 8-0 lead at the time of the stoppage.
As security worked to secure the stadium and officials assessed whether conditions were safe to resume play, some fans took matters into their own hands.
Within seconds of the pitch being cleared, three individuals broke through and sprinted onto the grass.
One man, wearing a British and Irish Lions jersey, weaved his way across the field, dodging stewards for a short time before being taken down with a forceful tackle.
Two others — both sporting transparent rain ponchos — also made it onto the pitch and managed to outrun security for a few extra seconds before eventually being caught and escorted away.
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Rugby fans seized their moment during the Test between the British and Irish Lions and Australia
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Under Australian law, invading a pitch at a professional sporting event is considered a serious offence.
Penalties vary between states, but fines typically range from $5,000 to $10,000 AUD, with repeat or disruptive offenders facing the possibility of jail time.
Offenders can also be banned from all major stadiums in the country for several years, and in high-profile cases, they may even receive criminal records.
The incidents have reignited debate about the balance between crowd control and fan passion, especially at high-stakes international fixtures.
While the Lions' tour continues to draw massive global interest, such breaches raise safety concerns for players, officials, and spectators alike — particularly in moments of heightened tension or confusion, like a sudden weather suspension.
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Rugby fans were drenched as they attended the British and Irish Lions' clash with Australia in Sydney
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After a delay of 30 minutes, the contest resumed.
The British and Irish Lions are hoping to complete a series whitewash over their rivals, having won each of the two previous matches Down Under.