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Perth to host Kangaroos Test in 2016

The international league calendar needs a shake up. (AP Photo/Tim Hales)
27th January, 2016
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Perth will host its first ever Rugby League international in 2016 – a clash between Australia and New Zealand on October 15.

The nib Stadium Test match will be staged prior to the 2016 Four Nations Tournament in the UK and will be an important lead-in match for both teams.

In a significant year for Rugby League in Perth, the city will also host two NRL matches – the Round 13 match between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Gold Coast Titans and the Round 19 match between the Manly Sea Eagles and the New Zealand Warriors.

NRL Head of Football Todd Greenberg said Perth was a fitting venue for the October Test for a number of reasons.

“We have seen some wonderful crowds in Perth in recent seasons and the city will again host two of our Premiership matches in 2016,” Mr Greenberg said.

“So it stands to reason that Perth should also host the best that international rugby league can offer.

“It is clear that Perth has embraced our club games in recent years and we will see another two important premiership matches in the city this year.

“The support that the game has received is a key reason we have decided to stage a Test match in Perth.”

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Sports Minister Mia Davies said the rivalry between the Australian and New Zealand teams is at an all-time high.

“West Australians have proven they have a strong appetite for Rugby League and the recent $95 million refurbishment of nib Stadium has delivered a venue that provides a world-class sporting experience and enhances Perth’s reputation as a destination of choice for sporting excellence,” Minister Davies said.

“The previous two NRL premiership fixtures played at nib Stadium between the Sydney Rabbitohs and the New Zealand Warriors saw sell-out crowds with the 2014 match breaking nib Stadium’s attendance record for a sporting event.”

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