Saints poised for historic international match

Northampton Saints have announced they will travel to Sri Lanka for a "historic" international fixture.

Saints, who sit top of the English Prem Rugby table, will take on the Asia Pacific Lions (APL) in Colombo on 28 August as part of their 2026-27 pre-season preparations.

The club said their visit was believed to be the first by an English Prem side to the country.

Julia Chapman, Saints' chief executive, said the fixture "reflects our openness to think differently, embrace new opportunities, and to contribute positively to the wider game".

She continued: "Sri Lanka is a rugby-loving nation and New Zealand's recent tour drew passionate crowds and strong community engagement.

"Beyond the pitch, travelling to Colombo allows us to grow Saints' brand in a new market, build meaningful international relationships, and explore potential long-term commercial opportunities."

The APL, spearheaded by Australian rugby icon David Campese, were established last year.

Campese, whose illustrious 14-year test career with the Wallabies included 101 international caps, said: "[The fixture is] an opportunity that reflects the diversity, talent, and ambition of Asia and the Pacific.

"Facing Northampton Saints gives us the perfect platform to showcase that on a global stage."

August's match will be played at the 10,000-capacity Racecourse International Stadium in the Sri Lankan capital.

Saints said the country "boasts a rich rugby heritage spanning over 140 years", with touring sides from England, New Zealand and the British & Irish Lions making stopovers there more than a century ago.

England toured the country in 1971, while the British & Irish Lions visited as part of their tours of New Zealand and Australia in 1930 and 1950.

"This tour symbolizes a revival of that historic connection," the English club said in a statement.

Saabir Cader, founder and director of the APL, said: "I warmly invite the loyal Saints supporters, the Shoe Army, to visit our beautiful island in August."

The club said further details for fans wishing to travel to the match would be available "in due course".

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