Australia to host Super League game between Wigan and Hull FC in February

  • 27/07/2017
Wigan players celebrate a try against Warrington in the Challenge Cup
Wigan players celebrate a try against Warrington in the Challenge Cup Photo credit: Getty Images

Rugby League history is set to be made in February, with the first ever official Super League fixture outside of Europe to be played in Australia

The Wigan Warriors, arguably the most recognisable name in UK league, have confirmed they will take their home fixture against Hull FC away from the North of England to Wollongong on February 10th.

As part of strategic plan to build their following on the international stage, the reigning World Club Champions will also take part in the first ever double-header games between Super League and NRL teams at a single venue, when Wigan face the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Hull FC play the St George Illawarra Dragons at ANZ Stadium, in Sydney, on February 17th.

Similar ventures have been undertaken by the NBA and NFL, taking their hugely popular American competitions on road trips to England with great success.

Wigan Warriors Chairman, Ian Lenagan has called it the biggest single commercial contract the franchise has ever signed.

"This announcement is one of the most innovative and exciting in the history of Wigan Rugby League Club.

"Wigan fans are famed for their loyal support as shown when a huge army of supporters travelled to Sydney for the World Club Challenge game with Sydney Roosters in 2014."

Wigan has several familiar names to Kiwi fans with New Zealand internationals Thomas Leuluai and Frank-Paul Nu'uausala, as well as former Warrior Sam Tomkins - while ex-Warriors Carlos Tuimavave and former Kiwi Sika Manu are currently at Hull.

Newshub.