'Tough competition': Crusaders confirm 'Clash of Champions' for Northern Tour

UPDATE: The Crusaders have confirmed that they will embark on their first-ever international tour next year.

The Super Rugby Pacific champions will play Munster on Saturday, February 3 and Bristol Bears on Friday, February 9.

The match against Munster is being billed as the ‘Clash of Champions’ because the Irish side won the United Rugby Championship trophy this year.

It’ll be the first time the Crusaders have played in Europe since 2011 when they played the Sharks at Twickenham as part of the 2011 Super Rugby season, following the 2011 earthquakes in Christchurch.

“The Crusaders are thrilled to be coming over to the UK and Ireland to face some stiff competition away from home,” said Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge.

“NZ and Australian clubs have been working on the World Club competition for years, so when an opportunity for Super teams to play Northern Hemisphere counterparts came up, it was just too good to pass up,” Mansbridge.

Mansbridge added: “Munster have a history of giving touring sides a pretty hard time, so they present particularly tough competition.

“There’s also the added connection with our new head coach Rob Penney who coached there.”

Munster Rugby CEO Ian Flanagan said: “We are delighted to welcome the Super Rugby champions to Munster, hosting a groundbreaking fixture against the Crusaders.

“We hold a proud and rich history of playing touring sides and I’ve no doubt next February’s game will be a special occasion for all involved.”

Meanwhile, Bristol’s Director of Rugby Pat Lam described his side’s clash with the Crusaders as a “unique opportunity”.

“To be able to welcome one of the best club sides on the planet to Ashton Gate is incredibly special and this fixture is a unique opportunity for our players, staff and supporters,” said Lam.

“The Crusaders are the reigning Super Rugby champions and we’re relishing the opportunity to take on the best club side in the Southern Hemisphere at what is sure to be a packed-out Ashton Gate.

“In a chat with my old Crusaders teammate Scott Robertson last week, we both agreed this is going to be something to really look forward to and we’re proud to be hosting them in Bristol.”