The Lions’ final Test against Australia was suspended due to adverse weather, after lightning struck 10km away from the Accor Stadium in western Sydney.
Players exited the field just three minutes into the second half, with the Wallabies leading 8-0 at the time thanks to an early Dylan Pietsch try and Tom Lynagh’s penalty.
As per World Rugby’s guidance on delays due to lightning, a pause of at least 30 minutes must be held.
Their policy states: ‘When the lightning strike is within six miles (9.6km) of the venue, it is recommended that players are removed from the pitch.
‘Recommendations on best practice also state that it should only be considered safe to return to the field of play a minimum of 30 minutes after the final flash of lightning or clap of thunder has been seen/heard.’
Players eventually returned to the field 30 minutes later, at around 12.40PM (GMT), with the action resuming at 12.50PM (GMT) after a 10-minute warm-up period.
The Wallabies went on to secure a 22-12 victory in chaotic conditions in Sydney, thereby preventing a Lions clean sweep on the tour.
Meanwhile, at the time of the delay, fans seated closer to the field were also advised to take cover in the concourse to minimise any risk of being affected by the conditions.
A message from inside the stadium read: ‘Bad weather is approaching. Patrons seated between rows 1-19 of the lower seating bowl head to the concourse where it is undercover.
‘Follow instructions of stadium staff. All other patrons please remain seated.’
Despite warnings that pitch invaders risk a £2,600 fine, two spectators leapt the barriers during the suspension.
The hooligans tried to rugby tackle one another, with security struggling to regain control.
Elsewhere, the afternoon of chaos also saw multiple players withdrawn due to injury.
Lions captain Maro Itoje failed a head injury assessment during the first half and was withdrawn, an issue that also befell Tommy Freeman.
James Ryan was also stretchered off before the pause in play, following a collision with Will Skelton.
