Reigning world champions New Zealand will warm up for the 2013 Rugby League World Cup in Doncaster.
The Kiwis will play the Cook Islands at the Keepmoat Stadium on Sunday, October 20 (3pm), it was announced this week.
“We wanted a decent hit-out under English conditions before the World Cup,” said New Zealand manager Tony Iro.
“There’s a chance some of our guys won’t have played for six to seven weeks and we don’t want to be underdone going into a tough first World Cup match against Samoa.”
Dons chief executive Carl Hall said: “After Doncaster missed out on a World Cup game I was very determined not to let it go, especially after all the hard work that the people of the town put in to try and hold a game or host a nation at this year’s tournament.
“I’ve been working tirelessly to organise this game.
“To get the world champions and my home nation at the Keepmoat is just unbelievable and I can’t wait to see them in action.”
Tickets are on sale now at special early bird prices of £20 for adults, £15 for concessions, £5 for children (5-16), while under 5s go free.
For more information, or to book a ticket, call the Keepmoat Stadium ticket office on 01302 762576.