Lions add Auckland game

Sir Clive Woodward will lead the Lions tour

The British and Irish Lions will play an additional match against Auckland on next year's tour of New Zealand.

The extra match will be played at Eden Park, Auckland on Tuesday 5 July.

The game, the 11th of the tour, falls between the second Test against New Zealand in Wellington and the final Test at Eden Park.

Auckland, who are coached by ex-Northampton and Newcastle forward Pat Lam, have had six wins over the Lions in the past.

2005 LIONS SCHEDULE 4 June: Bay of Plenty 8 June: Taranaki 11 June: NZ Maori 15 June: Wellington 18 June: Otago 21 June: Southland 25 June: 1st Test - C'church 28 June: Manawatu 2 July: 2nd Test - Wellington 5 July: Auckland 9 July: 3rd Test - Auckland

"The Lions were keen to have an additional match against one of the top provincial sides and I am sure Auckland will provide them with a tough challenge," said NZRU deputy chief executive Steve Tew.

"This is exciting for Auckland fans as it gives them another chance to see the Lions play."

Auckland are the reigning National Provincial Championship title holders.

The tour for the Lions, who will be coached by Sir Clive Woodward, starts in Rotorua on Saturday 4 June, against Bay of Plenty.