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Australia to Tour England for Rugby League Ashes
In a significant revival of rugby league traditions, Australia is set to tour England this autumn for the Rugby League Ashes, marking their first visit since 2003. The highly anticipated series will feature three Tests held at prominent venues, including Everton’s new stadium.
The matches are scheduled to take place on 25 October, 1 November, and 8 November at Wembley, Bramley-Moore Dock, and Headingley, respectively. This series presents a rare opportunity for fans to witness top-tier international rugby league as the Kangaroos face the English team coached by Shaun Wane.
Significantly, it has been a lengthy hiatus for these two teams, with their last encounter dating back to the 2017 World Cup final, where Australia emerged victorious with a narrow 6-0 win. In the 2022 World Cup semi-finals, however, England suffered a surprising defeat to Samoa, which adds more intensity to the upcoming Ashes series.
Peter V’landys, chairman of the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC), expressed enthusiasm about this revival, stating, “We are proud to revive one of the great rugby league traditions with the first Ashes series and Kangaroo tour of England in 22 years. The ARLC believes in the international game and is committed to supporting its growth, particularly in the northern regions.”
He further noted, “Kangaroos tours are iconic within rugby league folklore and have consistently provided exhilarating contests. The current generation of Kangaroos players has not yet experienced the unique atmosphere of a Kangaroos tour, and I am thrilled they will have the chance to build their own legacy alongside the legends who came before them.”
However, this announcement coincides with some challenges at the governance level of the sport in Australia. Recently, the former Rugby Football League chief executive, Nigel Wood, returned to the governing body to lead a strategic review, indicating a period of reflection and potential transformation within the sport.
Overall, the upcoming Ashes series not only promises thrilling rugby league action but also serves as a pivotal moment for both Australian and English teams to re-establish their positions in the international arena.
Source
www.theguardian.com