A new era for Wales Rugby League will begin against Ireland at The Gnoll on Saturday 25 October (3pm).
Paul Berry will take charge of his first game as Head Coach as part of a two-game series against the Irish that includes a second meeting on Saturday 1 November (3pm) at the Millennium Stadium in Featherstone.
It will be the first meeting between the two nations since 2018, where Wales ran out 40-8 winners to earn a place in Rugby League World Cup 2022.
The fixture in Neath will also include a Wales ‘A’ team against the UK Armed Forces (11.30am), in a squad that is set to include promising young talent that are making their way in the Academy setups of Super League clubs, alongside the best of other pathway sides.
“We’re excited to have two games ahead of us this Autumn as we take the first steps to getting a squad prepared for a shot at qualifying for the World Cup in 2030,” said Berry.
“In recent years, we’ve seen players from our youth pathways have success at age group level and earn contracts with Super League Academy and Reserve squads. It’s now about giving some of those players exposure to the full international arena.
“We still have some established players in the professional and semi-professional game to call upon, and their experience will be invaluable as we introduce the next generation. While they may differ in experience, they share the passion for success in a Welsh shirt.
“The chance to supplement that with an ‘A’ team is something that has been spoken about for a little while. The squads will train together and it helps us bridge that gap between age group rugby league and the senior setup. It will be great to see both teams in action this October.”
Tickets for the double-header are free for under 11s, while children aged 12-16 gain entry for just £5. Tickets for adults are £15, concessions are £10 and a family ticket is £35. Tickets can be bought at wrl.wales/tickets
