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Rugby

29th Jul 2015

Report: Ireland could face New Zealand in the United States next year

Chicago or Boston are potential host cities

SportsJOE

Could our first victory over New Zealand come on American soil?

Ireland are being touted as potential All Black opponents for a game in the United States next year.

The New Zealand Herald are reporting that plans are being made for two games in America in Autumn 2016, most likely at Chicago’s Solider Field, with Maori All Blacks and All Blacks playing on consecutive nights.

Due to a strong Irish-American community, Ireland are reportedly being considered as potential opponents for a game in either Chicago or Boston.

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According to the NZ Herald:

Ireland have been mentioned previously as a potential opponent for the All Blacks in either Boston or Chicago, where many people with Irish connections have settled. The IRU has also been touted as one union keen to broaden their rugby reach.

The All Blacks played at Soldier Field last year, recording a comfortable victory over the USA Eagles 74-6 in front of 62,000 people.

New Zealand Rugby are hoping to make an announcement before the start of September’s World Cup.

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