South Africa will face Kenya in two men’s senior internationals for world ranking points in early November. Both games will be played at the Grizzlies Stadium in Pretoria, on 1 November 2023 (kick off 4pm local time) and 4 November (kick off 6pm).

The Rhinos have already held camps in preparation, with head coach Fanie Bredenhann saying: “Covid arrived on everybody’s’ shores to create problems in all classes of life. Rugby league has suffered tremendous postponements and cancellations and dreams of international competition vanished.

“We suddenly had to rethink our strategy and approach and now host Kenya to revive and promote the code in Africa. It will be an honour to welcome them and share friendship into the future.”

Kenya will be coached by former professional Eddie Rombo, their director of rugby and ecosystems development, John Mbai, noting: “This has been years in development and will mark yet another historical milestone for our young, growing federation.

“We look forward to some exciting matches that will definitely give us an indication of where we are on the world stage and what more we need to do.”