NZ Barbarians to play Maori

The New Zealand Barbarians have been confirmed as the third rugby opponents for New Zealand Maori, who celebrate their centenary this year.

The teams will meet at Whangarei on June 12 ahead of the Maori side's matches against Ireland at Rotorua on June 18 and England at Napier five days later.

New Zealand Maori were always scheduled to have three matches and it had been hoped to secure Wales as opponents for the first game.

The Barbarians last assembled in 2003 for a 17-42 loss to England, and last played the Maori side in 2002 when winning 37-22.

The New Zealand Rugby Union today said the centenary series was to be jointly sponsored by Aotearoa Fisheries Ltd and Sealord.

- NZPA