'Opportunity to test ourselves': Rhinos prepare to host USA series

The USA Hawks are set to arrive at Oliver Tambo International Airport on Monday, December 2 for an historic series against South Africa.

The Hawks will face the South African Rhinos in two Test matches that promise thrilling action and a showcase of top-tier domestic rugby league talent as both teams are playing non-heritage players in a clear move to develop the game amongst local clubs and players.

The Rhino’s last faced off against the USA in October 2011 in Philadelphia, a match the US won convincingly 40-4. This will be the first time that South Africa plays host to the USA on African soil.

The Hawks are led by team manager Billy Neilson and coach Sean Rutgerson, who played for South Africa at the 2000 World Cup. Rutgerson played for North Sydney Bears, Canberra Raiders and Salford Reds 

The Rhinos are guided by coach Fanie Bredenhann and team manager Andre Coetzer.

South Africa is currently ranked 28th and the USA Hawks 31st on the IRL World Rankings. The Rhinos are eager to leave a lasting impression before the 2025 IRL World Series to determine the final two places in the next World Cup, to be staged in Australia and Papua New Guinea in 2026.

“We are excited to welcome the USA Hawks and look forward to what promises to be a competitive and high-quality series of matches,” said Andre Coetzer, the Rhinos’ team manager.

“This is an incredible opportunity to test ourselves on the international stage.”

South Africa is also in the spotlight after announcing their intention to bid to host the 2030 IRL Men’s World Cup, the second longest running World Cup Competition in the world.

Tickets are available at the venues. Both matches will also be streamed live via www.sarugbyleague.co.za in another first of the sport in South Africa, with SA Rugby League getting ready to launch their own streaming platform.

The first test match takes place at Centurion Rugby Club in Pretoria on Wednesday, December 4, with a kick-off time of 18:00. The second test will follow on Saturday, December 7th, at Grizzlies Rugby Club in Pretoria, starting at 16:00.