The USA Hawks will arrive in South Africa for a historic rugby league series against the Rhinos, featuring two Test matches to promote local talent. This is their first encounter on African soil since 2011, with both teams utilizing non-heritage players. The matches are set for December 4 and December 7 in Pretoria, and will also be streamed online.
The USA Hawks are set to arrive at Oliver Tambo International Airport on December 2 for an historic rugby league series against South Africa. This unique matchup will feature two Test matches, showcasing exceptional local talent as both teams comprise non-heritage players aimed at promoting the sport within domestic clubs. The Rhinos last competed against the Hawks in October 2011, a match the US convincingly won, and now it marks the first time the USA will play on African soil.
Team manager Billy Neilson and coach Sean Rutgerson, a former player for the 2000 World Cup, lead the Hawks. The Rhinos, directed by coach Fanie Bredenhann and team manager Andre Coetzer, are keen to impress ahead of the 2025 IRL World Series, which will determine the final spots for the 2026 World Cup in Australia and Papua New Guinea.
“We are excited to welcome the USA Hawks and look forward to what promises to be a competitive and high-quality series of matches,” expressed Andre Coetzer. Furthermore, South Africa is currently considering a bid to host the 2030 IRL Men’s World Cup, maintaining its reputation in the global rugby league arena. Tickets for the matches are available at the venues, and both will be streamed live via www.sarugbyleague.co.za, signifying a landmark moment in South African rugby league.
The upcoming series between the USA Hawks and South Africa’s Rhinos marks an important development for international rugby league, particularly for the growth of the sport in South Africa. By utilizing non-heritage players, both squads are focusing on enhancing local talent and fostering domestic clubs. The scheduled Test matches are significant not only as competitive events but also as stepping stones towards larger international competitions, such as the World Cup.
In summary, the historic rugby league series between the USA Hawks and the South African Rhinos not only highlights the development of local talent but also serves as a precursor to future international competitions. As South Africa aims to host the 2030 IRL Men’s World Cup, this series presents an invaluable opportunity for both teams to test their mettle on the global stage, fostering excitement and interest in rugby league.
Original Source: www.intrl.sport
