Wallaby Man
Nev Cottrell (35)
Lions have turned into an even bigger occasion than they were even 30yrs ago. Don’t think there would be a player running around that would pass up the opportunity. Basically adds an extra 100k to your value when talking to Japanese/French clubs in the future.There definitely wouldn't have been the same financial incentives for players to participate in the '89 game as there would be today. I don't think they'd have trouble fielding a strong team.
I imagine any games against the Lions whether it be another Wallabies test or an ANZAC game will be lucrative for Rugby Australia. So the players would want to be rewarded for that.
I personally have thought maybe this is a catalyst for future project of a touring ANZAC side for big $$$ in Europe, Japan or even RSA. National sides could play at the same time for a double dip like Eng, Ire, etc. do during the Lions tours. Could send an ANZAC team to Europe and then Wallabies/ABs send a depleted side to USA/Canada every 4yrs