Rugby League: Kiwis face Australia in Auckland tripleheader

  • 29/08/2018

The Kiwis will take on Australia at home for the first time in four years, as part of a tripleheader event at Mt Smart Stadium.

On Saturday, October 13, New Zealand will square off with the world champions as the headline act, with the Junior Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns also taking on their Australian counterparts.

NZ Rugby League CEO Greg Peters said it was the ideal way for the Kiwis to return to home soil, where they haven't played since the World Cup in October.

"What we want to do is build a cauldron of Mt Smart as the home of rugby league and build on the vibe that the Warriors have created this year," Peters told Newshub.

"The big thing for us is to be able to play at home in front of our fanbase and our families, and that's so important for the game."

It also marks the first time new coach Michael Maguire will take the helm in front of a home crowd.

"This is the start of a new journey with the Kiwi rugby league team," said Maguire.

"We're looking forward to showing families, fans and teammates what it means to represent the Kiwi jersey.

"The fans have been waiting a long time to see this match-up on their home soil."

The Junior Kiwis will kick-off proceedings against the Junior Kangaroos at 3pm, followed by the Kiwi Ferns vs Jillaroos at 5pm, then finally the Kiwis vs Kangaroos at 7:45pm.

Newshub.