Reigning world champions New Zealand will face RBS Women's Six Nations champions England in two Tests in November as both build up towards the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2010 in London.
The three-time world champion Black Ferns, who have beaten England in the last two Women’s Rugby World Cup finals – including 25-17 in 2006, will also play England A in a midweek match between the Tests.
The two Tests will take place at a venue still to be confirmed in London on 14 and 21 November when the Black Ferns, on their first tour of England, will be looking to maintain their record of losing only of the rivals’ 10 previous meetings.
"It's fantastic news that New Zealand will be coming over in November,” said England head coach Gary Street, whose side beat Scotland 72-3 to win a record fourth successive Six Nations title.
“This is great preparation for our World Cup campaign and also gives us a tremendous focal point post the Nations Cup in August.
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"It will be the first time we have played them since the 2006 World Cup final and my first game in charge against them. Our players are excited to play them and I'm sure we'll see some excellent games of rugby.
"It's also the first time that they have toured in England and it will be great to play them on home soil. I really hope we get some great support and the chance to show the public how great Women's Rugby is at the top end of the Game."
NZRU Professional Rugby General Manager Neil Sorensen added: “The Black Ferns tour to England will be an exciting challenge for the players and follows on from the great showing by the New Zealand Women’s Sevens team at the recent Rugby World Cup Sevens in Dubai.”
The Black Ferns will bid to extend their reign as world champions when the top 16 international teams in the Women’s Game converge on London next September.
Rosie Williams, the Rugby Football Union for Women Managing Director, added: “The RFUW is delighted that the Black Ferns are coming to London to play international rugby against England.
“This is not only a great chance for us to test ourselves on the field against one of the best teams in the world, but also tremendous preparation ahead of the 2010 IRB Women's Rugby World Cup in August and September next year."