mens
international
RFU and Exeter Chiefs have confirmed that Sandy Park will host England Match A against an Ireland XV February 20, 2027
Mark Mapletoft’s side will travel to Devon during the 2027 Guinness Six Nations, with the game taking place a week earlier. England A face Chile at Kingsholm in Gloucester.
Although it has hosted many England Women’s matches in recent years, this match will be the first England A Men’s international match at Sandy Park since 2012, when the English Saxons beat Ireland Wolfhounds 23-17.
The Saxons also won Italy 34-5 in 2007 at the stadium.
England A was re-established in 2024 and several Bosses players have featured for the team over the past two years, including Ethan Roots, Greg Fisilau and Will Butt.
England Men’s Rugby Head of Players and England Head Coach A Mapletoft said: “We’re really looking forward to playing at Sandy Park, which is a fantastic venue for our players. It’s an opportunity for the group to perform in a great rugby environment and embrace everything that comes with this opportunity. We’re excited and hope Exeter can enjoy the performance.”
Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter welcomed the decision to take the match to Devon.
“I am delighted that Sandy Park has been chosen as the host venue for this match. Rugby is thriving in the South West and it is testament to our position here that the England women’s team will follow Rugby World Cup and the Red Roses host matches here.
“It also provides an excellent opportunity for our players on the fringes of the international schedule to put their hands up for selection with impressive performances in our league and European fixtures ahead of the international block in early 2027.”
Tickets will go on general sale on September 6 at 12pm, with priority sales already open to Exeter Chiefs Season Members via their TicketHub accounts. Tickets for adults start from £18, while tickets for under 16s cost from £5.
