CLUB ANNOUNCEMENT: The Galloping Greens to play the Japan Under 23 team at Coogee Oval on Tuesday, April 15th!
Randwick Rugby is the only Australian club team to have played matches against international sides, firstly against the New Zealand All Blacks in 1988 and then the Argentinian Pumas in 2019. On both occasions these matches were played at our iconic home ground at Coogee Oval and were unforgettable rugby and community events which people still talk about today.
Therefore, in the spirit of continuing this proud tradition of the Galloping Greens taking on international opponents, Randwick Rugby Club is today delighted to announce that our club will again play an invitational match against the touring Japan Under 23 team at Coogee Oval on Tuesday, 15th April at 2.00pm.
The Japan Under 23 team is coached by the Japan Head National Coach, former Randwick legend and Life Member Eddie Jones.
This match will be played as a mid-week friendly match at Coogee Oval between our early Shute Shield rounds against Sydney University and the Two Blues. It will also be our first game of the year on Coogee Oval in 2025 and is an ideal way to showcase our new squad and emerging talent at home to our fans, partners and sponsors.
An additional bonus is that the game will be played during school holidays, giving Randwick Rugby the opportunity to also showcase this event to and involve our local juniors, including all our mini Village Clubs, Randwick Warriors Boys, Randwick Magic Girls and the Randwick Junior Academy - Australia’s largest and most successful junior rugby development program for boys and girls aged 10-18 years.
The Japan Under 23 squad is a selection of the best 18 to 22 year old players in Japan, giving Eddie the opportunity to build depth in his senior squad ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, to be held here in Australia.
The Japan Under 23 squad is touring Australia for 16 days for an intensive training camp and to play 3 friendly matches. Firstly, the squad will play two games at the Coffs Harbour Festival of Rugby against the Australian Barbarians and then the NSW Country team’s, before taking the Wicks on at the hallowed turf of Coogee Oval in the final game of their tour on Tuesday, April 15th.
Randwick and Wallaby Legend Simon Poidevin said “We are incredibly grateful to the Japan Rugby Football Union for the opportunity to again host an international fixture at Coogee Oval, this time against the best young talent in Japanese Rugby. This match will be another lifetime rugby experience to savour for both teams, our loyal supporters, commercial partners and juniors.”
Japan Head National Coach Eddie Jones said " I’m thrilled to return to Australia with our very talented Under 23 squad and even more delighted for them to come to my old stomping ground at Coogee Oval, to test themselves against my beloved Wicks. I know Randwick are incredible hosts at Coogee for these style of occasions and it will be a great rugby experience for everyone”
Match Summary Details:
Teams: Randwick Rugby v Japan Under 23
Date: Tuesday, April 15
Kickoff: 2.00pm
Venue: Coogee Oval
More details about game day activities, curtain raisers, ticketing information and TV coverage plans will be released in due course.
However, we are pleased to advise that 2025 Sayle Season Ticket Holders will have bonus entry into this game as part of your 2025 package. Another great reason to fully support the Wicks and get a season ticket.
ENDS
For any media requests in relation to the tour please contact:
Mark Harrison
General Manager
Randwick District Rugby Union Football Club
via email: office@randwickrugby.com.au
Takanori Isshik
Media Manager
Japan Rugby Football Union
via email: takanori.isshiki@rugby-japan.or.jp