Ireland will take on Australia in September in a celebratory Test match to mark the IRFU’s 150th anniversary.
The match will be held in Ravenhill, where Ireland received such enthusiastic support for their Six Nations win over Scotland — a win that qualified them for the Rugby World Cup.
The Wallaroos are ranked fifth in the world, so will offer a good challenge as Ireland prepare for their WXV1 campaign after being promoted to the top competition.
“We are really pleased to add this Test match into our fixture list at the start of next season, providing the squad with a valuable preparation window ahead of our WXV campaign in September and October,” said Ireland head coach Scott Bemand.
“Australia will be coming off the Pacific Four competition, which kicks off this month. It’s a great chance for us to play an opponent with a different game style.”
“The added backdrop of this match kicking off Irish Rugby’s 150th anniversary celebrations will make it an occasion to remember, and we look forward to getting back up to Belfast where we have received incredible support during the Six Nations.”