mens
rugby world championship
Before the Springboks start another one Rugby World Cup title defense against Italy On October 3, 2027, the two-time reigning world champions will take on the Flying Fijians in a crucial warm-up test on Australia’s central coast.
South Africa Rugby and Fiji The Rugby Union has confirmed that the national teams will play a test two weeks before the men’s Rugby World Cup kicks off in 2027. The match will take place at the Polytec Stadium in Gosford on Saturday 18 September.
The Flying Fijians are looking to build on their quarter-final appearance at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, while the Springboks are chasing an unprecedented treble. Both teams will be based on the Central Coast leading up to and after the Test.
Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus and captain Siya Kolisi attended the official announcement on the Central Coast, which took place exactly one year after the match. Boxing are currently in Australia preparing to face the Wallabies, following Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Test series.
“We are very excited to announce the clash against Fiji as part of our preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, as well as the opportunity to play another Test match in Gosford on the Central Coast after we last faced the Pacific Islanders in 2004,” Erasmus said.
“Fiji are a quality team who have consistently tested some of the best teams in the world over the last few years, and they have proven they can be a force to be reckoned with by reaching the quarter-finals of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, so it will certainly be a great test for our team ahead of the international spectacle in Australia.
“They are one of the top 10 ranked teams in the world, a physical and talented side who will no doubt want to take full advantage of the game, as will we, before the Rugby World Cup starts.
“I’d like to thank everyone who made this possible from the Central Coast and SA Rugby, and there’s no doubt it will be an exciting encounter in an area where both teams enjoy fantastic support.”
The match is scheduled to kick-off at 18:00 (local time) (10:00 SA) with a capacity of 20,000 tickets available. Tickets go on sale later this month on September 29th at 10:00 AM (US), and demand is expected to be high.
South Africa begin their World Cup defense against Six Nations away Italy at Adelaide Oval, before the clash Georgia at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane and Romania in Perth. Fiji have been drawn in Group C with Argentina, Spain and Canada.
“Fiji Rugby is delighted to confirm this historic test match against the Springboks, one of the most respected and successful teams in world rugby,” said Fiji Rugby Union CEO, Koli Sewabu.
“The Springboks have set the benchmark in world rugby and our players relish every opportunity to test themselves against the best. This game is more than a rugby match. It’s about inspiring our people, engaging our global Fijian community and continuing to showcase the unique style, spirit and talent that Fiji brings to the world game.
“We are grateful to our partners for helping to bring this event to life and providing a platform that celebrates international rugby while strengthening the bond between our two proud rugby nations. We know there is a strong Fijian community across Australia and we look forward to seeing our supporters supporting the Flying Fijians in Gosford.
“This match will provide valuable high-performance preparation as we continue to build towards the Rugby World Cup and our long-term goals, while creating an unforgettable opportunity for rugby fans to witness two passionate rugby cultures come together in what promises to be a highly competitive and entertaining contest.”
Mayor of the Central Coast, Lawrie McKinna, added: “Council is proud to support this event and ensure another major international sporting event for the Central Coast,” Mayor McKinna said.
“With only 20,000 seats available, I would encourage fans to get there early and be part of what promises to be a historic occasion for our region.
“The Springboks are one of the most successful teams in rugby history, while Fiji have become one of the most respected and entertaining sides in the international game. This means local residents, young players and sports clubs will have the opportunity to connect with some of the biggest names in world rugby.”