Hong Kong to host 2010 Bledisloe Cup match

The Hong Kong Rugby Football Union (HKRFU), in conjunction with the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) and Australian Rugby Union (ARU), has announced that Hong Kong will again host a Bledisloe Cup match in October.

The match will see New Zealand and Australia extend their historic series to Asia for the third time â their first Asian clash having been in Hong Kong in 2008.

The match will be played on 30th October 2010, kicking off at 4.30pm Hong Kong local time (7.30pm AEDT; 9.30pm NZT).

As HKRFU Executive Director Robert Knight explained "we always wanted to build on the tremendous success of the historic 2008 encounter, and are thrilled to bring the All Blacks and Wallabies back to Hong Kong.

"Bringing the Bledisloe Cup back to Hong Kong will reinforce our position as a global rugby destination.

"With millions watching on television around the world this is rugby at its best and a real showcase for Hong Kong.

"We are sure that the teams and fans alike will be in for a remarkable rugby experience."

NZRU Chief Executive Steve Tew said "we are delighted to be again returning to Hong Kong for the Bledisloe Cup Test. The All Blacks have a huge fan base in Asia and the team is again looking forward to meeting and playing in front of our fans in Hong Kong.

"There was an incredible response when the All Blacks played the historic Bledisloe Cup Test match there two years ago and we are expecting a similar experience."

ARU Chief Executive John O'Neill added "the Bledisloe Cup is an event of major international significance.

"To take the game to Hong Kong for a second time in three years - and we went to Tokyo last year - is a sign that we are serious about embracing the Asian market.

"It's in rugby's global interests to ensure our footprint becomes more distinct in Asia, and to build on the wonderful advances the Hong Kong Sevens has made for the code.

"Showcasing a fiercely contested Bledisloe Cup Test, one of the most keenly watched clashes in all of international rugby, achieves that objective and also provides a unique âneutralâ setting for the Qantas Wallabies and All Blacks to experience."

This year Australia and New Zealand will meet three times as part of the Bundaberg Rum Tri Nations Series before contesting the final fourth match in Hong Kong.

Match 1: 31st July, Etihad Stadium, Melbourne
Match 2: 7th August, AMI Stadium, Christchurch
Match 3: 11th September, ANZ Stadium, Sydney
Match 4: 30th October, Hong Kong Stadium, Hong Kong.

14th March 2008 - HONG KONG TO HOST HISTORIC BLEDISLOE CUP TEST