2024 is set to kick off with a battle of the champions as New Zealand powerhouse Crusaders confirm a trial against Irish giants Munster.
The Crusaders announced their first international tour on Thursday, set to face the United Rugby Champions on February 3 before facing Bristol six days later.
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It will be the first time since 2011 they have played in Europe, moving their game against the Sharks to Twickenham after the earthquakes in Christchurch.
“The Crusaders are thrilled to be coming over to the UK and Ireland to face some stiff competition away from home,” Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge said.
“NZ and Australian clubs have been working on the World Club Competition for years, so when an opportunity for Super teams to play Northern Hemisphere counterparts came up, it was just too good to pass up.
“Munster have a history of giving touring sides a pretty hard time, so they present particularly tough competition. There’s also the added connection with our new head coach Rob Penney who coached there.”
Munster claimed the URC after overcoming defending champions Stormers in May for their fourth title.
“(The club is) delighted to welcome the Super Rugby champions to Munster, hosting a ground-breaking fixture against the Crusaders,” Munster CEO Ian Flanagan said.
“We hold a proud and rich history of playing touring sides and I’ve no doubt next February’s game will be a special occasion for all involved.”
This was shared by Bristol, who won the European Challenge Cup in 2019-20, excited to test themselves against the Crusaders after they held on to defeat the Chiefs for their seventh straight title.
“To be able to welcome one of the best club sides on the planet to Ashton Gate is incredibly special and this fixture is a unique opportunity for our players, staff and supporters,” Bristol Director of Rugby Pat Lam believes.
“The Crusaders are the reigning Super Rugby champions and we’re relishing the opportunity to take on the best club side in the Southern Hemisphere at what is sure to be a packed-out Ashton Gate.”
“It’s exciting to play against a club of Bristol’s calibre, and one that we already have a relationship with. Razor and Pat Lam have been close for a long time, and Bristol Bears Academy member Andrew Turner made his Crusaders debut this year,” Mansbridge added.
“It’s also a fantastic chance for our new coaching group to connect, and for our playing group to travel and compete together in a new environment.”
