Black Ferns to face Wallaroos on ANZAC Day
- editor59343
- 55 minutes ago
- 2 min read
The Black Ferns will travel to the north of Queensland in Australia for a historic Test match against the Wallaroos in April, the first to be played between the two sides on ANZAC Day.
Hosted by Sunshine Coast Stadium, the evening Test will take place on Saturday, April 25 at 9.45pm NZT/7.45pm AEST kick-off.
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The historic match will be part of the Pacific Four Series and the first of two O’Reilly Cup Tests in 2026.
Since 1994, the sides have played each other on 29 occasions, including three matches at Women’s Rugby World Cups.
New Zealand Rugby General Manager of Professional Rugby and Performance Chris Lendrum the game will be a special occasion.
"The O’Reilly Cup rivalry between New Zealand and Australia already carries a deep, historic significance.
"To mark it by playing on ANZAC Day adds an extra special element to an occasion women’s rugby fans will already be excited by.
"We can't wait to see fans get behind the Black Ferns in 2026 like they did during last year's World Cup, by showing their support in-stadia and watching live on TV from back home."
Rugby Australia Chief Executive Phil Waugh said the game will be something special
"The eternal bond between Australia and New Zealand was forged on the first ANZAC Day.
"More than neighbours, we are family, with shared values and ideals that have only strengthened through the years.
"We are therefore honoured to welcome the Black Ferns to our shores this ANZAC Day for a first-of-its-kind Test match between our two great nations at Sunshine Coast Stadium.
"Rugby has a unique ability to unite and inspire communities and this Test match will go a step further, bringing together two countries on a day of reflection and gratitude for the service, sacrifice and spirit behind the ANZAC legacy."
