Second All Blacks XV fixture confirmed as newly named side clash at the home of Prem champions
Second All Blacks XV fixture confirmed as newly named side clash at the home of Prem champions
England will face the All Blacks XV in November at the Recreation Ground in Bath, as the two sides, unbeaten since the start of 2024, meet for what is expected to be a highly anticipated fixture.
The ‘second string’ squads are seen as development opportunities to feed through to senior level, with the likes of Cadan Murley, Tom Willis and Asher Opoku-Fordjour all having made the transition in the recent past with England.
Many fans will remember both sides previously performing under different names in years gone by. England A used to go by ‘England Saxons’, whilst the All Blacks XV were once known as New Zealand A.
An exciting and challenging campaign
RFU executive director of performance Conor O’Shea said: “Any time a side representing New Zealand has set foot on English soil, it serves up a fantastic fixture and is a fitting opening to an exciting and challenging campaign for the England A team.
“The men’s A programme has served our senior men’s team brilliantly in 2025 with a number of players earning what we hope to be the first of many caps. We look forward to developing the talents of a refreshed cohort in a testing international arena.
“The Recreation Ground has been a fantastic venue for the U20 men in recent years with vibrant and youthful crowds that we are confident will match the occasion of a touring All Blacks XV this November.”
Bath to host the immense clash
Tarquin McDonald, chief executive officer at Bath Rugby, said: “We are incredibly proud to host this clash between England A and the All Blacks XV.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for fans to witness top-tier international talent at our home ground, and a proud moment for our club to see several of our own players representing England.
“We look forward to welcoming supporters from across the country for what will undoubtedly be a special occasion at the Rec.”
Tickets for the match go on general sale Friday, 15th August, at 10am, with a 48-hour pre-sale now open for Bath Rugby season ticket holders and members. Adult tickets start from £25 and kids (U16) from £15.
Kick off: Saturday 8 November 2025 (13:15 GMT kick-off).