England to face France in Avignon
England will hone their preparations for the 2011 Gillette Four Nations with an International against France in Avignon on Friday October 21.
The fixture which kicks off at 7.30pm will also see England wear their alternative kit for the first time at Parc des Sports, eight days before they play Wales in their opening fixture of the Gillette Four Nations.
England Head Coach Steve McNamara said: “We’ve always stated our commitment to International Rugby League, particularly in the northern hemisphere.
“The mid-season International changed this season, but we’ve said that we’d look to play France at some point and with the emergence of the Catalan Dragons and French players this season it will be fantastic preparation for the players leading up to the Gillette Four Nations.
“The opportunity to play in France was also an attractive proposition and dovetails well with our plans and preparations for the Gillette Four Nations.
“We’re expecting a fiery and passionate battle in front of a big crowd as they are very passionate about Rugby League in Avignon.”
The International clash will also form a crucial part of France’s preparation for their autumn Tests against Scotland and Ireland.
England‘s distinctive alternative kit is made by Official England Rugby League Apparel Partner ISC and is available to purchase at www.rugbyleagueonline.co.uk
England kick-off their Gillette Four Nations campaign on Saturday October 29, when they take on Wales at Leigh Sports Village (2.30pm) with tickets priced at only £10 for adults and £5 concessions.
Australia face defending Four Nations champions New Zealand a day earlier at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, Warrington, on Friday October 28 (8.00pm) in the opening fixture of the tournament.
The Wembley double-header comes one week later on Saturday November 5 and sees Wales take on New Zealand at 1.00pm before England face up to Australia at 3.30pm in the national stadium.
To mark the return of International Rugby League to Wembley, the RFL have introduced a special celebratory offer, giving fans the chance to purchase a £25 ticket for only £10 if they book before Friday July 22 by quoting promotional code ‘4NWEM01’.
England’s third group game against New Zealand will be played at the KC Stadium in Hull on Saturday November 12 (6.00pm) and tickets are priced from £20 adult and £10 concession.
Wales will play Australia in their final group fixture at The Racecourse Ground in Wrexham on Sunday November 13 and fans will be able to attend the game for £10 Adult and £5 concessions.
The 2011 Gillette Four Nations final will be played at Elland Road in Leeds on Saturday November 19 (6.00pm) and tickets are priced from £20 Adult and £10 concession.
