Wales to face Queensland Reds in July

Wales has extended their tour of Australia in July by scheduling a third game, this time against the provincial team Queensland Reds.

his additional match comes after their two-test series against the Wallabies, as confirmed by officials on Saturday.

Under the guidance of Coach Warren Gatland, the Welsh team will first face Australia in Sydney on July 6, followed by a match in Melbourne a week later.

Instead of arranging another international match within the window, they will head to Brisbane to take on the Reds on July 19.

This encounter will mark the Reds' first game against a touring team since their 41-5 victory over Scotland in 2004.

“We’re excited for the opportunity we have with our two Tests in Australia in July," said Wales head coach Warren Gatland.

We know the Wallabies will be hurting after the Rugby World Cup but Australia is a tough place to go and play rugby and we’re expecting a fired up side led by new Head Coach Joe Schmidt.

“We were keen to have a third fixture while in Australia so we are really pleased that we have been able to arrange that with the Queensland Reds to finish up our tour Down Under.”

QRU Chief Executive Officer David Hanham said the match will be a good learning experience for the Reds.

“We want International sides to see a tour game against the Reds as an essential part of their tours to Australia,” he said.

“With the British and Irish Lions game against Queensland next year locked in, and the new Nations Championship coming in 2026 there are lots of opportunities for our fans to watch the Reds face top-flight opposition outside of Super Rugby.

“It’s also a vital part of our plan to get our players playing more games.”