The All Blacks will play the Springboks in a 2023 pre-Rugby World Cup warm-up in Twickenham, it has been announced.
The match will take place on Friday, the 25 August at 7.30pm UK time and will be the first time they’ve played each other at the stadium since a tense Rugby World Cup 2015 semi-final.
The game will take place just two weeks prior to the kick-off of the 2023 Rugby World Cup and will undoubtedly be one of the most anticipated RWC warm-ups leading into the flagship tournament. It will also provide the RFU with a significant boost to their coffers in a year where November Tests will be shelved.
“We’re excited to play this vital fixture before the Rugby World Cup at the iconic Twickenham Stadium.
said Springboks head coach Jacques Nienaber. “There is a large contingent of passionate expats and Springbok supporters in London, and we have no doubt they will come out in numbers and give us a lift before we attempt to defend our World Cup crown.”
SA Rugby director of rugby Rassie Erasmus said: “The Springboks and All Blacks share one of the greatest rivalries in rugby, and to face them at Twickenham will be an exciting experience for the players and our fans. I have no doubt it is going to be an epic encounter.”
All Blacks’ Head Coach Ian Foster: “This match will form an important part of our preparations for Rugby World Cup. Matches against the Springboks are always hard-fought and we are expecting nothing less than a titanic battle on this unique occasion.”
RFU CEO Bill Sweeney commented: “We are looking forward to welcoming two powerhouses of global rugby. Both nations have sizable ex-pat communities in London and beyond, who will no doubt contribute to what is set to be an electric atmosphere at Twickenham Stadium.”
