On Saturday, September 5th, international rugby will return to Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. The United States squad will play an international test match against the Qantas Wallabies of Australia. The match will hold world standings implications and will be a final opportunity for both teams to prepare themselves for the Rugby World Cup. Last year, the USA Rugby Eagles played the New Zealand All Blacks at Soldier Field.
International Rugby in Chicago: USA Rugby Eagles v. Qantas Wallabies of Australia
The United States has a long history against Australia. The U.S. played their first international test match against Australia in 1912. In 1975, there was a growing need for a national governing body for the sport of rugby in the U.S. and USA Rugby was officially formed. The next year, the USA Rugby Eagles played their first test match against Australia.
The Wallabies are undefeated against the Eagles. However, the Eagles talent has improved significantly in the past few years and the Eagles hope to end that losing streak in their match in Chicago. Eagles head coach Mike Tolkin and captain Chris Wyles will lead the squad in Chicago.
USA Team for 2015 Rugby World Cup in England
The 31-man USA team for the 2015 Rugby World Cup in England was announced four days ago. The team will have 20 World Cup debutants and matches against Pool B opponents Japan, Samoa, Scotland, and South Africa. The team selected for the World Cup is the same as the squad chosen for the three pre-World Cup matches, which included a third-consecutive defeat of Canada. Additionally, 13 players have professional contracts overseas.
“In terms of Rugby World Cup experience, yes this is a relatively inexperienced group,” Tolkin said. “However while the Rugby World Cup is a whole different kettle of fish, many of these players do have a fair bit of international play under their belts since 2011.” The Eagles have hosted three of their Pool B opponents – Japan, Scotland, and Samoa – in the U.S. in 2014 and 2015.
