Iconic rivalry to be renewed as All Blacks XV set to face Munster

Irish provincial side Munster Rugby are one of the most iconic brands in world rugby.

Known for their long and storied history with the Investec Champions Cup (formerly Heineken Cup), the Irish side enjoys feverish home support. Their home ground, Thomond Park, is one of the most renowned stadiums in European Rugby.

However, when it comes to rugby brands, no name comes close to New Zealand’s All Blacks, who are known worldwide for their ability to remain the key dominant force in international rugby.

With such a remarkable history behind the two brands, it only makes sense that the two would combine.

In fact, this year’s fixture will be the ninth time that the two countries have met with Munster, who also hosted a Maori All Blacks side back in 2016.

Losing their first three encounters against the Kiwis, Munster would draw 3 – 3 with the All Blacks in 1973 and would go on to become the first Irish side to beat the New Zealanders with their famous 12 – 0 win in 1978.

Against other touring countries, the men in red have a strong record with a notable victory over the World Cup-winning Wallabies in 1992 and a 28 – 14 win over a South African XV in 2022.

Announcing this year’s fixture, Munster Rugby sent out a statement which read as follows:

Munster Rugby are pleased to confirm that the province will take on the All Blacks XV on Saturday November 2nd at Thomond Park (5.30pm).

Since the redevelopment of Thomond Park in 2008, Munster Rugby have hosted international opposition in the form of the All Blacks, Australia and the Māori All Blacks at the Limerick venue.

More recently, Munster Rugby have hosted sold-out clashes against South Africa A and the Crusaders in Cork’s SuperValu Páirc Ui Chaoimh in November 2022 and February 2024.

Commenting on today’s announcement, Munster Rugby CEO Ian Flanagan said: “We will be delighted to welcome the All Blacks XV to Thomond Park in November as part of their Northern Hemisphere tour.

“We have a long and rich history of hosting international sides, and I’m sure November’s match will add another exciting chapter to this tradition.”