An enticing nine games will be played between the world’s top two ranked teams throughout 2011-2013 as England women will take on World Champions New Zealand in three back-to-back tests.
A new unique three-year agreement has been drawn up between the RFU and New Zealand Rugby Union which is a major step forward for the women’s game.
England will host three tests in both the autumn of 2011 and 2012 before heading to New Zealand for three further tests in June 2013, just a year before the 2014 Women’s Rugby World Cup.
The last clash between the world leading teams saw England narrowly lose to the four times World Champions in the record breaking Women’s Rugby World Cup Final in London.
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Rosie Williams, Managing Director of the Rugby Football Union for Women, said: “We are really excited about this announcement. It is the first time that we have had a three year commitment to play New Zealand and this will do wonders from both a playing and profile perspective.
“This agreement is the icing on the cake for us. We now have regular tests against the current World Champions, as well against the USA and Canada in the Nations Cup, and of course Europe’s best in the Women’s RBS 6 Nations.”
NZRU General Manager Professional Rugby, Neil Sorensen, said: “To know that we are going to see the world’s two top women’s rugby teams in action for nine internationals over the next three years is really exciting. It will be hugely beneficial for both teams as they prepare for the Women’s Rugby World Cup.
“We have not only achieved a regular programme against quality opposition but we have also been able to create a fantastic touring opportunity for these teams funded in large part by the RFU which demonstrates the respect that is held for our world champions.”
The first clash of the titans of women’s rugby will take place on November 26th with the second and third tests on November 29th and December 3rd. All venues and kick off times will be confirmed in due course.
Emma Paton, Sportsister
The Women’s Weekly Magazine
