The British and Irish Lions are lining up what would be a historic and lucrative first Test match against Japan ahead of their tour of South Africa next year, Telegraph Sport can reveal.

It is understood that the 2019 World Cup hosts, who shot to prominence after stunning victories over Ireland and Scotland to reach the quarter-finals of the tournament, are top of a shortlist of opponents for the fixture that also includes the Barbarians.

It is expected such a high-profile fixture against Jamie Joseph’s side would raise around £5 million, which would cover the majority of the costs of the Lions’ eight-game, six-week tour.

The fixture would also allow Lions head coach Warren Gatland an extra game to prepare his squad for the three-Test series against the world champions and would almost certainly feature England’s Saracens contingent, who will be playing the Championship next season following relegation for salary-cap breaches.

The Principality Stadium in Cardiff, which has a capacity of 74,500, is thought to be the most likely venue to host the game, although it is understood that Murrayfield in Edinburgh and the Aviva Stadium in Dublin are also in contention.

The Rugby Football Union however has indicated it is not prepared to make Twickenham available so as not to jeopardise their relationship with Premiership Rugby as the fixture has been scheduled for the same weekend as the English club’s showpiece final.