Australia versus Ireland: Test venue confirmed
NEWS: Australia announced that Test Rugby will return to the Sydney Cricket Ground for the first time since 1986 when Australia takes on Ireland in 2020.
The clash with Ireland sets up a cracking encore of the 2018 Ireland Series decider in Sydney, which was played in front of a then-record crowd at the former Allianz Stadium.
The July 11 clash will be the second Test of a two-match series against Ireland on their 2020 tour of Australia.
The Ireland Series kicks off an exciting 2020 Test schedule as the next generation steps into the breach in a new era for the Wallabies.
Australia last played Ireland at the SCG 40 years ago in 1979, with the only other battle between the two nations at the venue occurring in 1967.
Rugby Australia Chief Executive, Raelene Castle said: “The Sydney Cricket Ground is one of the most iconic venues in Australian sport and has hosted some of the most famous Rugby Test matches ever played in this country.
“Returning there in 2020 for the second Test against Ireland will be a nostalgic experience for those who watched Test matches there through the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s, and a chance to be part of history for the younger generation watching a Test at the SCG for the first time.
“The last time these two countries played in Sydney the Stadium and the whole Paddington and Moore Park precinct came to life and was flooded with fans wearing green and gold, not to mention the on-field action which went right down to the wire as Ireland pipped the Wallabies to win the Series.”
NSW Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayers said: “The NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, is proud to support a sporting event of this incredibly high calibre.
“Major events like this play a crucial role in ensuring NSW remains Australia’s number one tourism State, and we look forward to welcoming rugby fans from right across the nation and the world to Sydney next year to watch our Wallabies take on Ireland.”
Sydney Cricket Ground CEO, Kerrie Mather said: “The SCG is the original home of the Wallabies having hosted Australia’s very-first Test match in 1899.
“There have been so many memorable Test matches at the ground and we look forward to seeing the next generation of Wallabies add to the SCG’s rich Rugby history.”
Fans are encouraged to join Team Rugby to be part of an exclusive pre-sale window to purchase tickets, and for further updates on the 2020 Wallabies Test calendar.
Hospitality packages are on sale now for the Ireland Series. Private suites, corporate boxes and functions are available for fans who want to enhance their Wallabies Test match experience. Information on hospitality packages is available here.
The announcement follows confirmation that Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane will host the first Test in the two-match series on July 4.
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