World Club Series fixtures confirmed

Correspondent

Wigan will face Cronulla and Warrington will take on Brisbane in the World Club Series next year in the UK it has been confirmed.

Super League Champions Wigan and League Leaders Shield winners Warrington will represent the Betfred Super League against 2016 NRL Champions, Cronulla Sutherland Sharks and six-time NRL Premiership winners the Brisbane Broncos in the two game series next February.

The action will kick off on Saturday February 18 when Warrington Wolves host Brisbane Broncos at the Halliwell Jones Stadium at 8pm.

The Dacia World Club Challenge will then follow on Sunday February 19, when Wigan Warriors host the Sharks at the DW Stadium at 3pm. There will be no third game.

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Super League General Manager, Mark Foster, said: “We are pleased to welcome Cronulla and Brisbane to the UK to take part in the 2017 Dacia World Club Series.

“The 2016 Dacia World Club Series delivered some great rugby and I believe that the 2017 Series will produce two games that will provide great entertainment for Rugby League fans.

“We have worked hard with the NRL to produce a series that will not only excite fans but one that also allows all clubs in the NRL to have a full pre-season.”

“The Super League and its clubs have always been very supportive of international club rugby and the benefits it brings.

“If we are to continue to grow the sport to reach new audiences then we all need to work together to continue to produce these wonderful occasions.

“Cronulla and Brisbane have shown their commitment to doing this and the value that they place in taking part in the series and we are excited to welcome them to these shores in February.”

NRL CEO Todd Greenberg, said: “There was always enormous interest in the World Club Series and it would be no different in 2017 with the Sharks appearing for the first time.”

Shane Flanagan, Cronulla Sharks Head Coach, said: “To have the chance to play over in the UK, for a World Club Championship, is a great opportunity and one that our club is really looking forward to.

“Then add to that the challenge of playing Wigan, one of the strongest and most famous clubs in the Super League and it will definitely be an outstanding experience.”

Shaun Wane, Wigan Warriors Head Coach, said: “We are excited to welcome the Cronulla Sharks to the DW Stadium in February.

“They are a quality side who have shown that when under pressure they can come up with their very best rugby.

“Playing against the very best that the NRL has to offer will offer this squad a big test, but it is one I am confident they will rise to.

“We came very close to beating the Brisbane Broncos two years ago and the squad are very motivated to do well against Cronulla and hopefully win the World Club Challenge for the fourth time ever next year.”