Wallabies announce World Cup warm-up against Samoa

Rugby Australia has confirmed the Wallabies will take on Manu Samoa in a farewell Test prior to the team’s departure for Japan at the new Bankwest Stadium in Paramatta on September 7.

The Sydney Test sets up an anticipated rematch of the infamous Test between the two nations eight years ago, prior to the 2011 tournament in New Zealand.

In a result that shocked the Rugby world, a little-known Manu Samoa outfit used a physical barrage to ambush the Wallabies at ANZ Stadium in Sydney, notching their first Test victory in five attempts against the Australians.

“With the World Cup in our sights this year we really want to build some momentum to help take our game up a level or two, I think that’s really important for us,” Wallabies coach Michael Cheika said in a news release.

“We will have a few new tricks up our sleeve this season so we might look a little different to what most people may expect.”

The September 7 fixture will also be the first Rugby Test played at the new western Sydney venue.

Rugby Australia Chief Executive, Raelene Castle said: “The addition of a third home Test for the Wallabies will further build on the excitement ahead of Japan and provides a great opportunity for fans to farewell the team at the new world-class Bankwest Stadium.”

Wallabies v Manu Samoa
Saturday 7 September
Bankwest Stadium, Sydney

Samoa Test extra special for Sio and Alaalatoa