Springboks confirm final World Cup warm-up game in Australia
· The South African
The Springboks’ warm-up match against Fiji, which is supported by Australia’s Central Coast Council and was launched on Friday – exactly one year before the World Cup kicks off – marks only the fourth time the two nations have met.
The Test will serve as a vital part of both teams’ preparation for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, with the Springboks aiming for a historic three-peat, while the Flying Fijians will look to build on their 2023 quarter-final appearance as they carry the hopes of the Pacific into a home-region tournament.
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After facing Fiji, the Springboks will start the defence of their world title just over two weeks later when they take on Italy in Adelaide on Sunday, 3 October.
With a 18:00 AEST (10:00 SA time) kick-off confirmed, the match is expected to drive visitation of proud Springbok and Fijian fans to the Central Coast.
Important encounter for the Springboks ahead of World Cup defence
Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus said they were very excited about the opportunity to play another Test match in Gosford on the Central Coast after last facing the Pacific Islanders there in 2004.
“Fiji are a quality team who have consistently tested some of the top sides in the world over the last few years, and they proved that they can be a force to be reckoned with by advancing to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, so it’s certainly going to be a great test for our team before the international spectacle in Australia.
“They are one of the top 10 ranked teams in the world, and they are a physical and talented side who will undoubtedly want to take full advantage of the match, similarly to us, before the Rugby World Cup kicks off.
“I’d like to thank everyone who made this possible from the Central Coast and SA Rugby, and I have no doubt it is going to be an exciting encounter in an area where both teams enjoy fantastic support.”
Special occasion
Fiji Rugby Union CEO, Koli Sewabu said: “Fiji Rugby is delighted to confirm this historic Test Match against the Springboks, one of the most respected and successful teams in world rugby.
“The Springboks have set the benchmark in world rugby, and our players relish every opportunity to test themselves against the very best. This fixture is about more than a rugby match. It is about inspiring our people, engaging our global Fijian community and continuing to showcase the unique style, spirit and talent that Fiji brings to the world game.”
With capacity at polytec Stadium capped at 20,000, tickets are expected to be in high demand for the fixture. Tickets will go on sale at 10:00 on Tuesday, 29 September 2026 and fans are encouraged to purchase early to avoid disappointment. Fans can sign up to the waitlist here and be first to know when tickets go on sale.