In 2005, the British & Irish Lions embarked on a highly anticipated rugby union tour of New Zealand, marking their return to the Kiwi shores for the first time since 1993. The tour, spanning from May 23 to July 9, unfolded with a rigorous schedule comprising seven matches against teams from the National Provincial Championship, a fixture against the New Zealand Maori team, and a formidable three-test series against the formidable All Blacks.

The Lions, managed by former England and Lions player Bill Beaumont, were under the coaching expertise of Sir Clive Woodward, the former England coach. At the helm as the tour began was Ireland's captain, Brian O'Driscoll. However, the tour took an unexpected turn early on in the first test when O'Driscoll suffered a controversial and tour-ending injury just two minutes into the game. This unfortunate incident paved the way for Wales captain Gareth Thomas to assume the role of captain for the remaining four games of the tour.

Despite boasting one of the most experienced playing squads and the largest management team in the history of Lions tours, the 2005 edition faced significant challenges. The Lions found themselves on the receiving end of a 3-0 defeat in the test series against the All Blacks, marking the first time in 22 years that they had lost every test match on tour. The disappointing results triggered criticism, particularly aimed at Clive Woodward's selection policy. The scrutiny extended to the point of questioning the future viability of the Lions as a competitive force in international rugby.

The 2005 tour to New Zealand followed the Lions' 2001 venture to Australia and set the stage for the 2009 tour to South Africa. The challenges faced and the lessons learned during this tour would shape the Lions' approach in subsequent campaigns.

Notably, the top test point scorer for the 2005 Lions was Wales' Stephen Jones, who contributed 14 points throughout the series. The tour, despite its setbacks, played a pivotal role in the evolution of the Lions, prompting reflection and adjustments to ensure future competitiveness on the global rugby stage.

As the British & Irish Lions navigated the highs and lows of the 2005 New Zealand tour, it became a chapter etched in the annals of rugby history—one that forced introspection, adaptation, and a renewed commitment to the Lions' enduring legacy in the realm of international rugby.