In the build up to the 2021 Rugby League World Cup, which yesterday passed the 150 days to go landmark, Ireland will host Scotland in a wheelchair international at Calderdale College, Halifax, on Saturday 18 June (kick off 13:30). 

The clash will be the 15th meeting between the nations since 2012, with the most recent meeting being at the Celtic Cup in Wrexham earlier this month, when Ireland were narrow 38-35 winners, both sides featuring a number of players on debut. 

Ireland head coach, Damian McCabe, believes that the encounter is the next step in their preparations, after replacing Norway in the World Cup tournament. “We are looking forward to this fixture as game time is invaluable as we prepare for the showcase event,” he noted. “Matches between us have traditionally been hard fought and close games, the recent Celtic Cup match we played suggests this one shall be no different.”

Opposite number, Mark Roughsedge, is keen to learn more about his squad. “To be able to schedule another Test match into our calendar is fantastic,” he said. “Just like Ireland, we will be using this match as an opportunity to ramp up our preparations for November. This extra game will provide us with an opportunity to build on the learnings from the Celtic Cup and will allow us to start to fine tune our drive towards Sheffield.” 

Spectators are welcome at the game, which will be free entry.