England and Fiji join Hornets party

ROCHDALE’S 150th anniversary celebrations are set to culminate in some style when the Crown Oil Arena plays host to England’s final warm-up fixture ahead of the 2021 Rugby League World Cup.

Shaun Wane’s side will face Fiji on Friday October 15, eight days prior to their tournament opener against Samoa at St James’ Park in Newcastle.

The town of Rochdale is home to the second-largest Fijian population in the UK outside of London and as a club, Hornets have a long and storied history with the Pacific nation, stretching from Orisi Dawai and Josefa Levula in the early 1960s to Joe Taira in the current squad.

“This fixture will be a vital part of our preparations for the World Cup, and I’d like to thank Rochdale Hornets and the Fiji National Rugby League for making this happen,” said Wane.

“The Bati are a very talented side individually and collectively, and I wish them well at RLWC2021.”

At the moment, just 2,000 tickets are available for the clash, though it is hoped more will go one sale as restrictions are lifted.

“We’re delighted to announce our flagship event as part of our 150th anniversary celebrations,” said Hornets chief executive Steve Kerr.

“To welcome Fiji back to Rochdale and continue our cultural links with the island nation is an absolute privilege and honour.

“Supporting Shaun Wane and his England team in their preparations ahead of the 2021 World Cup is simply incredible and the icing on the cake.

“We now look forward to showcasing the game under the lights on a Friday night at a sell-out Crown Oil Arena.”