'Iconic part of folklore': Ashes set to return after 22 years as Kangaroos tour locked in
One of rugby league's most storied rivalries will return this year, with the Kangaroos set to tour England for the first Ashes series in more than two decades.
In a statement on Wednesday evening, the ARL Commision confirmed the three-game series would take place in October and November.
It marks the first time since 2003 that an official rugby league Ashes will be held.
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"We are proud to revive one of the great rugby league traditions with the first Ashes series and Kangaroo tour of England in 22 years," Peter V'landys said.
George Williams and Isaah Yeo pose with the trophy. NRL
"The ARLC believes in the international game, and the commission was behind this historic tour to support the growth of the game in the North. Kangaroo tours are an iconic part of rugby league folklore and have always delivered thrilling contests.
"The current generation of Kangaroos players have never experienced the magic of a Kangaroo tour, and I'm delighted that they will have a chance to cement their own legacy alongside the greats of the past."
It's a massive boost for the English game as well, with the games scheduled to be played at some of the most iconic venues in the country.
Wembley Stadium will host the series opener on October 25 (AEDT) before a clash at the brand-new Everton Stadium on November 1.
The series will conclude at Headingley Stadium on November 9.
Head coach Mal Meninga, who played in a record four Kangaroos tours in the 1980s and 1990s, believes it will be an important step ahead of the next World Cup.
Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga. Getty
"The Ashes series between Australia and England is what our international game has been built on. I think it is the ultimate," he told NRL.com after the announcement.
"We love the history, which goes back to 1908 and 1909, but we haven't had a chance to play England since 2017, and from an Ashes point of view, we haven't played since 2003.
"To be able to play at Wembley, at the new stadium in Everton - where no other team has been before- and then going back to the tradition of Headingley, that is exciting."
