England & New Zealand set for Olympic Park showdown
The RFL have confirmed the three venues which will host the England v New Zealand test series in 2015.
The Olympic Stadium in London will host international Rugby League for the first time in November, when it will host the second test on Saturday November 7.
Hull’s KC Stadium will be used as the venue for the opening game of the series, on Sunday November 1, with the match forming part of Hull FC‘s 150th anniversary celebrations.
Wigan will be where the series concludes, at the DW Stadium on Satuday November 14.
“The Olympic Stadium provided the backdrop to some truly most memorable action at London 2012 and it is simply fantastic that we have reached an agreement for England to play New Zealand there in November,” said RFL chief executive Nigel Wood.
“The world’s best Rugby League players deserve to play on the biggest stages and our supporters deserve the opportunity watch rugby league in the best venues.
“The Kiwis are our oldest rivals on the international stage and the match at Olympic Stadium will provide one of the highlights of a historic year for the sport as we celebrate our 120-year anniversary in 2015.
“Two years have elapsed since we last hosted New Zealand and I am sure that everyone who witnessed that memorable semi-final at Wembley Stadium will be looking forward to experiencing a re-match at Olympic Stadium.
“Hull and Wigan have long and proud traditions as international Rugby League venues and the matches at KC Stadium and DW Stadium will be terrific occasions played out in front of bumper crowds.”
Hull-born England coach Steve McNamara is delighted that the test series will be kicking off in his hometown.
“The schedule for the Kiwi series is very exciting and it is fantastic that we have this opportunity to play an historic international at an iconic venue like the Olympic Stadium,” he said.
“Playing New Zealand always brings out the best in the England players and the chance to be involved in the match at Olympic Stadium will provide additional incentive for everyone.
“Coming from Hull, I’m also looking forward to the opening match at the KC Stadium, where the atmosphere is guaranteed to be electric, whilst we are assured of a rousing reception at Wigan in front of some of the most passionate fans in the world.”
Tickets for all three matches will go on general sale from 9.00am on Wednesday March 11.