‘Our Former Aussie’: Ground Announcer Pokes Fun at Lions from the Southern Hemisphere Before Kickoff

During the tour match in Perth between the British and Irish Lions and Super Rugby’s Western Force, the stadium’s announcer playfully ribbed some players about their diverse origins and previous loyalties.

As the announcer presented the visiting team before the match began, he jokingly referred to several Lions players as “former” residents from the southern hemisphere.

Not one to miss an opportunity for a laugh, the announcer called out four members of the Lions’ squad during his introductions.

“Our former Aussie at No. 14, Mack Hansen,” he announced while presenting the Lions.

“Next, another Aussie at No. 12, Sione Tuipulotu.”

“And at No. 11, we have the Kiwi-turned-Irishman, James Lowe.”

“And at prop, we have the former South African schoolboy now representing Scotland, Pierre Schoeman.”

The Lions’ squad features eight players from the southern hemisphere, comprising three Australians, three New Zealanders, and two South Africans.

This light-hearted commentary was well-received both in Optus Stadium and on social media.

“Brilliant trolling from the announcer in Perth,” remarked Nik Simon, the rugby correspondent for the Daily Mail UK, on X.

This playful banter marks the start of a five-week tour across Australia, which includes three Test matches and six tour fixtures.

Hansen, originally from Canberra, now plays for Ireland based on his heritage, yet the announcer still proudly claimed him as one of Australia’s own.

Tuipulotu, also born in Melbourne, leads Scotland thanks to his grandmother.

AS IT HAPPENED: Western Force vs British and Irish Lions

Lowe, a Kiwi, has been representing Ireland since 2020.

Both Hansen and Lowe had outstanding performances in the Lions’ decisive 54-7 victory on Saturday night, contributing to multiple tries.

Although Schoeman hails from South Africa, he currently plays for Scotland.

Finlay Bealham is another Australian, while Jamison Gibson-Park and Bundee Aki are of New Zealand descent, and Duhan Van der Merwe represents South Africa.

Earlier in the week, Lions assistant coach Richard Wigglesworth responded to a casual comment made by Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt regarding the team’s significant number of southern hemisphere players.