RUGBY LEAGUE will return to Liverpool’s historic Anfield stadium for only the third time ever in November.
The football ground, famous for its atmospheric Kop stand, will host the final of the Four Nations rugby league tournament.
The showpiece of the competition, which is staged every two years, will see two out of Australia, New Zealand, England and Scotland go head-to-head for the crown on Sunday November 20.
The last time the sport graced the famed turf on Merseyside came in 1997 as St Helens took on Catleford in the Super League.
Previous to that, the only other occasion was the World Challenge match between Wigan and Australian outfit Penrith.
The Olympic Stadium, soon to be home of West Ham United, has also been chosen as a venue for the tournament.
Sean O’Loughlin, England rugby league captain said: “Playing at iconic venues such as the Olympic Stadium and Anfield are one of the reasons we play the game.
“Walking out in front of 45,000 fans in London last year was one of the highlights of 2015 for me and I am sure that playing in front of big home crowds will push the team on to what will hopefully be a successful campaign.”
Andrew Parkinson, operations director at Liverpool, added: “We are delighted to be able to host such a prestigious match in the Rugby League calendar – we hope our increased capacity stadium will be the perfect backdrop.
“Anfield has played host to many landmark matches in its time and I’m sure the Four Nations final will be no different.”
England have never won the Four Nations, however, they have been defeated twice by Australia in the final.
New Zealand, the defending champions, and Australia have each won the title twice since its inception seven years ago.
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