International rugby league is coming to the Macarthur region this weekend.
There’s no NRL this weekend, but if you’re a local rugby league fan you’re in for a massive treat.
For the first time, the 2017 edition of the Pacific Test will see the might of England clash with the brave of Samoa as part of an all International Rugby League triple-header at Campbelltown Sports Stadium this Saturday, May 6.
In what is sure to be an action-packed Saturday, featuring some of the best rugby league talent from across the globe, the PNG Kumuls will take on the skill and power of the Cook Islands, before traditional rivals Fiji and Tonga battle it out for Pacific ascendancy in the penultimate match of the day.
The May 6 triple-header will culminate with Samoa aiming to make history and dethrone England for the first time.
“We’re under no illusions that this will be a tough test for us with the majority of the playing group coming from abroad, but we’ll prepare the best we can,” says England coach Wayne Bennett
“The Samoans are always a tough outfit, but we’ve got a solid group of players to choose from and I’m looking forward to getting everyone together for the match ahead of the World Cup later this year.”
Similar to previous years and with generous support from Destination NSW, the week leading up to the event will include fan and community activities, school visits from NRL Pacific Ambassadors and the Pacific Youth Summit at Western Sydney University.
All six captains will be taking part in a media call at Macarthur Square this Wednesday, May 3, from 2.15pm.
“It’s fantastic for Campbelltown and the wider Macarthur community to have access to such a diverse, inclusive and exciting festival of international Rugby League, right here in our own backyard,’’ says Campbelltown Mayor, Cr George Brticevic.
“I encourage footy fans to take advantage of the opportunity, and hope to see a packed Campbelltown Sports Stadium this Saturday night.’’
Member for Camden Chris Patterson echoed the mayor’s words.
“This is terrific news for South West Sydney,’’ he said.
“Having six international rugby league teams play at Campbelltown Sports Stadium will give us an opportunity to showcase the region and celebrate the cultural contributions Pacific Island communities have made to our neighbourhoods.’’
A host of NRL stars will be on show at Campbelltown during this Saturday’s international triple header.
Wests Tigers duo Sauaso Sue and David Nofoaluma, Broncos stars Anthony Milford and Josh McGuire, along with Sam Kasiano have been named in the Samoa squad, will Michael Jennings, Will Hopoate and Andrew Fifita will be wearing the national colours of Tonga.
Tonga coach Kristian Woolf was looking forward to the week ahead with calibre of players named in his squad.
“This is the first time since I’ve been involved that every player is coming straight from an elite NRL system, which is really exciting,’’ Woolf said.
“It’s the most talented group we’ve ever assembled, so if we work hard as a team next Saturday against Fiji, I’ve got no doubt we’ll fulfil our potential this year.’’
SNAPSHOT
What: Pacific Test 2017
When: Saturday May 6
Where: Campbelltown Sports Stadium
• Cook Islands v Papua New Guinea – 3.15pm
• Tonga v Fiji – 5.30pm
• England v Samoa – 7.40pm
