The South African Rhinos are set to host the USA Hawks for a historic rugby league series beginning on December 4, 2023, in Pretoria. This event marks the first match between the two teams on South African soil, with both aiming to enhance their international standing and showcase local talent. Fans can expect live streaming of the matches and an opportunity for South Africa to further its development in the sport.
The South African Rhinos are preparing to host the USA Hawks for an exciting rugby league series that is set to begin on December 4, 2023. This historic event will mark the first occasion that the USA team plays in South Africa, providing both teams an opportunity to showcase emerging local talent. The matches are expected to captivate fans as the Rhinos aim to impress before the upcoming 2025 IRL World Series, which is crucial for World Cup qualification in 2026.
The Hawks are set to arrive in South Africa on December 2 at Oliver Tambo International Airport, looking to build upon their previous victory against the Rhinos in 2011. The team, managed by Billy Neilson and coached by Sean Rutgerson—a former player at the 2000 World Cup—will face stiff competition from the Rhinos, who are guided by coach Fanie Bredenhann.
Currently, South Africa ranks 28th and the USA 31st in the International Rugby League (IRL) World Rankings. This series is an important step for both teams as they seek to develop the sport within their respective regions and make a mark on the international stage. Fans can look forward to live streaming of the games on the SARugbyLeague website, marking a significant advancement for rugby league in South Africa.
The first test is scheduled at Centurion Rugby Club in Pretoria, commencing at 18:00, while the second match will take place at Grizzlies Rugby Club on December 7, starting at 16:00. With anticipation building, team manager Andre Coetzer expressed excitement about the competitive nature of the matches, emphasizing this as a valuable opportunity for the team to evaluate their skills internationally.
As South Africa considers bidding for the 2030 IRL Men’s World Cup, the upcoming series against the USA offers a pivotal moment to highlight their capabilities in hosting significant rugby events.
The upcoming series between the South African Rhinos and the USA Hawks represents a crucial period for both teams as they seek to establish their stature in the international rugby league landscape. The Rhinos aim to develop local talent while preparing for the 2025 IRL World Series, which will play a significant role in World Cup qualification for the 2026 event. This series not only serves as a platform for competition but also as a showcase for the growth of the sport in South Africa.
The upcoming test matches between the South African Rhinos and the USA Hawks are set to provide a thrilling spectacle for rugby league fans. As both teams prepare for this significant event, it also serves as an opportunity for South Africa to reinforce its commitment to rugby league development. With local talent on display and a potential future World Cup bid on the horizon, this series is anticipated to leave a profound impact on both teams and their regions.
Original Source: www.intrl.sport
