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Munster confirm return to 40,000 seater for Crusaders visit
By Ian Cameron
Munster are set to make history once again as they return to Páirc Uí Chaoimh in February 2024 to take on the Super Rugby Champions, Crusaders, in a match dubbed the ‘Clash of Champions.’
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This fixture will bring together the reigning champions of the United Rugby Championship (URC) and Super Rugby in a highly-anticipated face-off.
Last November, Munster made waves by hosting the first-ever rugby game at the Cork venue, drawing a sell-out crowd for an unforgettable match against South Africa ‘A.’ Now fans can look forward to another groundbreaking fixture as the Crusaders, recently crowned Super Rugby champions, square off against Munster, the current URC title holders, in a friendly.
This development aligns with the growing interest in restructuring the rugby calendar and the possibility of a ‘Club World Cup.’ Reports suggest that discussions between the Northern and South Hemisphere leagues have progressed significantly, with a proposed 16-team tournament in the offing.
The format would potentially include eight northern hemisphere clubs, seven southern hemisphere teams, and a Japanese side, divided into four pools. Each club would play two matches against teams from the opposite hemisphere, determining the four semi-finalists.
With how much of the team is leaving I kinda wish New Zealand had sent the Chiefs or Hurricanes.
Interesting, how would the make 8 I wonder given their domestic (URC) structure. Each Shield champion (Ireland, Wales, and Scotland/Italy), with Premiership and Top 14 finalists, along with 2nd lvl Euro champs?
Pretty excited for this one should be a good game.