Russia to play two matches in NZ
Russia's national rugby team will embark on a brief mid-summer tour of New Zealand as part of their preparations for next year's World Cup.
The Russians are scheduled to arrive in New Zealand on January 7 for two matches, against a Taranaki 15 on January 15 at New Plymouth's Tikorangi Park and against South Canterbury at Timaru's Alpine Energy Stadium on January 21.
The provincial contests, against teams which will be assembled in the middle of their off-season, will help Russia prepare for their first appearance at a World Cup.
The Europeans qualified for the first time after a 21-21 draw with Romania in Sochi in February this year and will face Australia, Ireland, Italy and the United States in group C of the tournament in New Zealand next year.
© 2025 AAP
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