Scotland will face Ireland in a men’s senior international for world ranking points on Sunday 27 October (kick off 2pm). The game will be staged in partnership with Newcastle Thunder at Gateshead International Stadium, marking a return to the North East for international rugby league for the first time since the 2021 Rugby League World Cup. 

The Celtic match up will be on the back of both nations visiting the Netherlands in which they fielded predominantly community-based players, however, this fixture will see them making use of their available professionals under the watchful eye of men’s head coaches Nathan Graham (Scotland) and Ged Corcoran (Ireland).

For Scotland, the game will conclude a year of rejuvenation under a predominantly new board which has delivered an improved domestic competition and increased the depth of the Scotland Rugby League pathway.

“After a successful year for Scotland Rugby League at all levels including club, U16’s, 19’s and students, we are now delighted that we will be playing Ireland in Gateshead,” said Scotland Rugby League co-chairs Debbie Knight and Alistair McVicar. “The board have been working very hard behind the scenes to get this game on and welcome all of the support.”

For Ireland, the game is also an important milestone as they continue to progress their development on and off the field. RLI chair, Jim Reynolds, commented: “It’s great that we can play this second international game for the men, this time using more senior players. We’re very grateful to Scotland Rugby League and Newcastle Thunder for hosting and look forward to a memorable occasion.”

“Newcastle Thunder is committed to strengthening its ties with Scotland Rugby League, recognising the strong connection between the two regions” said Thunder’s Chairman Keith Christie. “With a significant Scottish diaspora in the North East, the club is confident that this match will not only be a great experience for fans but will also help to further establish Newcastle Thunder as a leading force in the rugby league community.”

Details of ticketing and hospitality will be released shortly.