The USA Hawks are set to face the South African Rhinos in two Test matches beginning December 4, marking the first time the USA will compete on African soil. The series aims to highlight domestic talent and is part of a broader initiative to develop rugby league in both nations. The matches will be streamed live and represent a significant opportunity for both teams ahead of future World Cup qualifications.
The USA Hawks are poised to make their historic appearance in South Africa, arriving at Oliver Tambo International Airport on December 2 for a series of matches against the South African Rhinos. Scheduled to compete in two Test matches, this series aims to showcase the prowess of domestic rugby league talent, as both teams will utilize non-heritage players, fostering local development within the sport.
Previously, the Rhinos faced the Hawks in October 2011, where the USA triumphed with a score of 40-4 in Philadelphia. This event marks a significant occasion, being the first time the USA will compete on African soil against South Africa. The USA team is managed by Billy Neilson and coached by Sean Rutgerson, a veteran of the sport who represented South Africa in the 2000 World Cup. The Rhinos will be under the guidance of coach Fanie Bredenhann and team manager Andre Coetzer.
Ranked 28th, South Africa is slightly ahead of the USA Hawks, who hold the 31st position in the International Rugby League World Rankings. The Rhinos aim to establish a strong legacy ahead of the 2025 IRL World Series, which will determine qualification for the 2026 World Cup in Australia and Papua New Guinea. “This is an incredible opportunity to test ourselves on the international stage,” stated Andre Coetzer, the Rhinos’ team manager.
South Africa is also attracting attention with its bid to host the 2030 IRL Men’s World Cup—the second-longest-running World Cup competition globally. Matches will take place at Centurion Rugby Club on December 4 and Grizzlies Rugby Club on December 7, both in Pretoria. Fans can purchase tickets at the venues and watch the games live on www.sarugbyleague.co.za as the South African Rugby League prepares to unveil its own streaming service.
This notable matchup not only presents a chance for both teams to exhibit their skills in an international setting but also emphasizes the ongoing progression of rugby league within South Africa and the USA.
The USA Hawks’ forthcoming tour to South Africa entails two Test matches designed to foster local talent development in rugby league. This series bears historical significance as it marks the first time the USA will compete against South Africa on African soil. With both nations striving to improve their standing in the global rugby league framework, this event symbolizes an essential juncture in their development paths. The matches also coincide with South Africa’s aspirations to host future international tournaments, thus enhancing the spotlight on the sport within the region.
In summary, the upcoming Test series between the USA Hawks and the South African Rhinos serves as an exciting opportunity for both nations to demonstrate their rugby league capabilities on an international platform. With the added significance of potential future hosting rights for South Africa in mind, the series is poised to contribute positively to the evolution of rugby league in both countries. Fans are encouraged to engage with this landmark event through live viewing options, reflecting the growth of the sport across borders.
Original Source: www.intrl.sport
