Expansion of the Bledisloe Cup Series in 2027
The Wallabies are set to gain a significant advantage in their quest to reclaim the Bledisloe Cup, as the key piece of silverware will be contested across three Tests in 2027. This marks a shift from the current best-of-two format, which has been in place since 2021. The addition of a third Test is being driven by renewed support from New Zealand Rugby (NZR) for an Anzac Day clash, which is expected to become a regular feature in the trans-Tasman rugby calendar.
The inclusion of the third Test comes after years of effort by Rugby Australia to introduce the concept and compete with other major sports like the AFL and NRL for attention on one of Australia’s most significant days. However, earlier attempts failed to secure the necessary backing from NZR. Now, with a new NZR board led by Sydney-based chairman David Kirk, along with a fresh coaching team that includes former Wallabies coach Dave Rennie, the idea has found renewed momentum.
It is anticipated that the proposal will be officially endorsed at NZR’s Annual General Meeting this week, with further details to follow. Rugby Australia is expected to host the match, with Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane and Optus Stadium in Perth likely competing to stage the event. The revenue generated from the game would be shared between the two governing bodies.
Key Dates and Format
The Bledisloe Cup opener is expected to take place on Saturday, April 24, the day before Anzac Day. A double header featuring the Wallaroos and Black Ferns could also be scheduled, with the two women’s teams set to face off for the first time on Anzac Day this year. The Black Ferns recently extended their 32-year unbeaten streak over the Wallaroos with a 40-5 victory on the Sunshine Coast.
Super Rugby Pacific, which may transition to a conference system in 2027, will be paused for the week of the Test. The Super Round, held this year in Christchurch over the Anzac Day weekend and drawing sold-out crowds, is likely to be moved to later in the season.
Impact on the Wallabies’ World Cup Build-Up
The addition of the Anzac Day Test will give the Wallabies their eighth Test in the lead-up to the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The team, under the guidance of Les Kiss, will also participate in a full six-round Rugby Championship and a final warm-up match against Ireland in Canberra.
For Dave Rennie, who was appointed as Scott Robertson’s successor in early March, the Test provides an early opportunity to assess his squad ahead of the World Cup. Although Kiss will not be able to call upon his international-based players due to the Test falling outside the international window, the match could offer the Wallabies their best chance of winning the Bledisloe Cup since 2002.
This is because, under the previous best-of-two format, the Wallabies were unable to lose a Test to the All Blacks, as the men in black were the cup holders.
Potential Inclusions and Player Availability
The Test could also mark the first time that Super Rugby-bound NRL star Angus Crichton dons the Wallabies jersey on home soil. While Crichton, 30, is expected to join the Wallabies’ end-of-year tour after completing his commitments with the Sydney Roosters, the Anzac Day clash will serve as Australia’s first Test on home soil next year.
However, his Roosters teammate Mark Nawaqanitawase, who is moving to the Japanese League One competition with the Wild Knights, is likely to be unavailable for the Test due to it falling outside the international window.
