The Barbarians have added a clash with Northampton Saints to their schedule later this summer, with the match taking place on Saturday, September 2.
Less than one year after the teams met for the first time, they will collide again at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens, it was confirmed on Tuesday.
Northampton won 45-39 on that day in November 2022 thanks to crossings from Callum Braley, Rory Hutchinson, Lewis Ludlam and Tom Collins (3).
Pre-season game for Saints
The September clash will act as perfect preparation for the Premiership season as the Saints look to hit the ground running in the 2023/24 campaign.
“The visit of the Baa-Baas last year was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the season at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens, and given the brilliant feedback we had from our supporters following that game, we are delighted to welcome them back again,” chief executive Mark Darbon told Saints’ website.
“We were able to showcase a fantastic day of top-class rugby, creating a new piece of history for Northampton Saints as we played the famous side for the first time.
“We also, as is the case this season, were able to ensure our supporters were not left out-of-pocket with fewer Gallagher Premiership fixtures on our calendar, and we remain committed to delivering unmissable entertainment at great value for all our Season Ticket Holders and Hospitality guests.
“Everyone at the club is thrilled about the prospect of welcoming Barbarian F.C. back to Northampton, and we’d like to thank everyone involved for helping to make it happen.”
He added: “It should be an excellent way to kick our season off on home soil, combining the Baa-Baas’ world-famous flair with Saints’ exhilarating brand of rugby. Another dazzling match-up is in store given the quality of the Baa-baas’ squad, with a large number of international players on Rugby World Cup standby expected to feature in the Black and White hoops.”
All-Aussie coaching team
There will be an all-Australian coaching team leading the Barbarians in their summer matches, with head coach Jason Gilmore excited about facing Saints.
“To coach the Barbarians on a UK tour is an exciting challenge and one I can’t wait for,” he said.
“The opportunity to bring the Barbarian style of play to a full house at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens will make for a great match.”
Gilmore’s assistant coach, Laurie Fisher, added: “I’m very excited to be returning to the UK. Time passes quickly, and the quality of rugby in the Northern Hemisphere has continued to rise.
“To have the opportunity to be associated with the Barbarian name in rugby is a true honour, and I look forward seeing some old faces and meeting new ones as my rugby journey continues.”
READ MORE: Two former Wallabies in all-Australian Barbarians coaching ticket
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