There was some very big news announced this morning.
England will host Tonga in a three-Test series this Autumn – the first ever international series between the two nations and the first time they have met since 2017’s memorable Rugby League World Cup Semi-final in Auckland.
Tonga last played England in this country in the 2006 Federation Shield Final – won by 32-14 by England – and the two did not meet again until the November 2017 when the Polynesians, trailing 20-0 with only seven minutes remaining, came within a whisker of overturning the deficit and denying England a final place at the death, eventually losing 20-18.
The three games will be held at St Helens’ Totally Wicked Stadium, Huddersfield Giants’ John Smith’s Stadium and Leeds Rhinos’ Headingley.
But how have fans reacted to this news?
Despite it being terrific news, one fan described it as “a missed opportunity” not having a game outside the heartlands.
St James’ Park, which hosted last year’s World Cup opener and many Magic Weekend’s, and many were surprised it wasn’t included whilst people suggested they should have considered Elland Road which hosted the World Cup semi-final.
These questions were prominent among social media.
Great to have more international rugby league confirmed. However I hope conversations were held with stadia outside the heartlands. There should've been one game in an expansion area.
Naturally some questioned why the Magic Weekend has been held in Newcastle for so long only for it not hold an international.
I’m looking forward to this series I really do feel as though the sport has missed an opportunity with the stadiums. What has been the point of 7 years worth Magic Weekends in Newcastle if we’re not going to take internationals up there and give the locals a team to support? https://t.co/CsvXeKp3tx
Lastly, one fan took aim at Australia for their lack of involvement with England and the international game.
Great to see. Fuck Australia. So many other teams we can be playing every year. Hopefully Tonga pick up a “warm up” against Wales on their way through https://t.co/h4q5ChDgvn
The top teams, the majority of players and the vast majority of spekkies live in the north of England. Why make them travel 200 miles plus to London when the locals won’t be interested
The top teams, the majority of players and the vast majority of spekkies live in the north of England. Why make them travel 200 miles plus to London when the locals won’t be interested