Ireland to Tour Australia, New Zealand as World Cup Preparation

Dublin: Ireland are to play eight games in Australia and New Zealand this autumn as part of their preparations for the 2015 World Cup down under.

A 30 September clash against Queensland Bulls on the Gold Coast is the first of four matches in Australia.

The Irish take on Northern Districts in Hamilton in their opening game in New Zealand on 16 October.

"This is a great opportunity to acclimatise ahead of the competition," said Ireland coach Phil Simmons.

Australia and New Zealand will host the tournament in February and March next year.

Ireland, who will be making their third World Cup appearance, are in Pool B with Zimbabwe, India, Pakistan, South Africa, West Indies and United Arab Emirates.

Ireland fixtures

• 30 September: v Queensland Bulls, Kerrydale Oval, Gold Coast
• 02 October: v Queensland Bulls, Redlands Oval, Brisbane
• 07 October: v Comets/NSW 2nd XI, Manuka Oval, Canberra
• 09 October: v Comets/NSW 2nd XI, Manuka Oval, Canberra
• 16 October: v Northern Districts, Seddon Park, Hamilton
• 18 October: v New Zealand XI, Seddon Park, Hamilton
• 21 October: v Canterbury, Bert Sutcliffe Oval, Lincoln
• 23 October: v Otago, Bert Sutcliffe Oval, Lincoln