The Springboks and Flying Fijians will complete their preparations for the 2027 World Cup with a final Test in Gosford, north of Sydney on Saturday, September 18 next year.
The Boks will start the defence of their world title just over two weeks later when they take on Italy in Adelaide on Sunday, October 3.
The match against Fiji, which is supported by the Central Coast Council and was launched on Friday – exactly one year before kick-off – marks only the fourth time the two nations have met. It will give fans the first opportunity to see the four-time and defending World Cup champion Springboks, and fan favourite Fijians, in Australia ahead of the 2027 tournament.
The Test will serve as a vital part of both teams’ preparation for the 2027 World Cup, with the Springboks aiming for a historic three-peat, while the Flying Fijians will look to build on their 2023 quarter-final appearance as they carry the hopes of the Pacific into a home-region tournament.
As part of their commitment to the region, both teams will take up residence on the Central Coast, leading into and following the Test, with the establishment of high-performance training camps which will see them integrated with the local community and utilising its world-class facilities.
Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus said: “We are very excited about the announcement of the clash against Fiji as part of our preparations for the 2027 World Cup in Australia, and for the opportunity to play another Test match in Gosford on the Central Coast after last facing the Pacific Islanders there in 2004.
“Fiji are a quality team who have consistently tested some of the top sides in the world over the last few years, and they proved that they can be a force to be reckoned with by advancing to the quarter-finals of the 2023 World Cup, so it’s certainly going to be a great test for our team before the international spectacle in Australia.
“They are one of the top 10 ranked teams in the world, and they are a physical and talented side who will undoubtedly want to take full advantage of the match, similarly to us, before the World Cup kicks off.
“I’d like to thank everyone who made this possible from the Central Coast and SA Rugby, and I have no doubt it is going to be an exciting encounter in an area where both teams enjoy fantastic support.”
Fiji Rugby Union CEO, Koli Sewabu said: “Fiji Rugby is delighted to confirm this historic Test Match against the Springboks, one of the most respected and successful teams in world rugby.
“The Springboks have set the benchmark in world rugby, and our players relish every opportunity to test themselves against the very best. This fixture is about more than a rugby match. It is about inspiring our people, engaging our global Fijian community and continuing to showcase the unique style, spirit and talent that Fiji brings to the world game.
“We are grateful to our partners for helping bring this event to life and for providing a platform that celebrates international rugby while strengthening the connection between our two proud rugby nations. We know there is a strong Fijian community across Australia and we look forward to seeing our supporters turn out in force to support the Flying Fijians in Gosford.
“This match will provide valuable high-performance preparation as we continue to build towards the World Cup and our long-term objectives, while also creating a memorable occasion for rugby fans to witness two passionate rugby cultures come together in what promises to be a highly competitive and entertaining contest.”
Issued by SARU Communications
