The South African Rhinos will host the USA Hawks in two Test matches starting December 4, marking the USA’s first visit to play in Africa. The matches serve as an opportunity for both teams to showcase local rugby talent and develop the sport domestically. Tickets are available, and the matches will be streamed live, highlighting South Africa’s growing presence in international rugby.
The South African Rhinos are poised to host the USA Hawks in an unprecedented series of Test matches, marking the first occasion that the USA team will compete on African soil. Upon their arrival at Oliver Tambo International Airport on Monday, December 2, the Hawks will challenge the Rhinos in two matches designed to display premier domestic rugby league talent while promoting local player development. The team’s last encounter was in October 2011 in Philadelphia, where the USA emerged victorious with a score of 40-4.
Guided by team manager Billy Neilson and coach Sean Rutgerson, a former participant in the 2000 Rugby World Cup, the Hawks will bring competitive spirit to the matches. The Rhinos, led by coach Fanie Bredenhann and manager Andre Coetzer, are eager to impress, particularly in light of their ambition to qualify for the upcoming 2025 IRL World Series and compete for spots in the 2026 World Cup.
The series carries great significance, as South Africa is currently positioned 28th and the USA 31st on the International Rugby League World Rankings. “We are excited to welcome the USA Hawks and look forward to what promises to be a competitive and high-quality series of matches,” stated Andre Coetzer, reflecting the Rhinos’ enthusiasm for this international contest. Furthermore, South Africa has expressed its intention to bid for the 2030 IRL Men’s World Cup, underscoring the nation’s growing presence in the sport.
Both Test matches will be streamed live on the SA Rugby League website, expanding access and viewership. The first match is scheduled to occur at the Centurion Rugby Club in Pretoria on December 4, beginning at 18:00, while the second match will take place at Grizzlies Rugby Club, starting at 16:00 on December 7. Tickets for these historic matches are available at the venues.
The upcoming rugby series between the South African Rhinos and the USA Hawks represents a significant step in international rugby league, providing a platform for both teams to showcase their strengths and commitment to developing domestically sourced talent. With the teams actively fielding non-heritage players, the series embodies a strategic effort to enhance local clubs and foster growth in the sport. The matches will also be pivotal for South Africa, which is positioning itself as a future host of major rugby events, including a bid for the 2030 IRL Men’s World Cup.
In conclusion, the series between the South African Rhinos and USA Hawks presents a historic opportunity for both teams to elevate their profiles and contribute to the growth of rugby league in their respective countries. As they compete for glory on the international stage, the ramifications of this series will resonate within their national rugby structures, enhancing player development and nurturing future talent.
Original Source: www.intrl.sport
