THE Lions will tour South Africa for the first time in almost 20 years during May and June 1997, the South African Rugby Uootball Union (SARFU) said yesterday.

The 13 match tour will comprise three Tests against the South Africans in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban, and 10 games against provincial and invitation sides, SARFU chief executive Edward Griffiths said.

"The last time the Lions were here was in 1980, and next year's tour will be of great importance for South African rugby," Griffiths told the SAPA news agency. "It is sure to generate tremendous public interest."