Bristol Bears to host Australia in November

Bristol Bears will be hosting a Australia XV side in a historic clash that will be hosted at Ashton Gate on 8th November.

This will be the second time Bristol will be facing an international side after they defeated South Africa XV in 2022.

“With the British & Irish Lions arriving next year, the November match-up against Bristol Bears is a great opportunity for the Australia XV players to demonstrate what they’re capable of against quality opposition, and for the Wallabies to build depth for the Lions series," said Australia head coach Joe Schmidt.

Bristol Bears director of rugby Pat Lam is relishing the opportunity to face the Wallabies.

“After such an incredible occasion against South Africa a few years ago, the opportunity to welcome another international side of the quality of Australia to Bristol is hugely exciting.

“This is a massive opportunity for our players to test themselves against an international standard team, for our staff to put on another unforgettable event and for our incredible supporters to welcome and host Australian supporters from all over the world to Bristol.

"We look forward to hosting Joe Schmidt and the Australian side at Ashton Gate on Friday, November 8th.”

Australia will also be facing England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland in the end of the year series in November.