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Rugby Union

Wembley clash for Baa-Baas and Wallabies

02/09/2008

The first-ever rugby union match at the new Wembley stadium will take place this December between the Barbarians and Australia, it has been announced.

The one-off fixture is the culmination of the London 1908 Olympics centenary and the Wallabies' six-match autumn tour.

One-hundred years ago the Aussies won gold in London when they beat a Cornwall team representing Great Britain 32-3.

The Baa-Baas will be gunning for glory when they take to the field in front of 90,000 fans on December 3rd.

"As we focus on preparing Team GB for London 2012, it is appropriate to mark the 100th anniversary of the Olympic Games first coming to London," said British Olympic Association chief executive Simon Clegg.

"This game at Wembley is a unique chance to see top class international rugby played at one of the world's greatest venues.

"I hope the sporting public will support this event in the knowledge that they will be seeing top class sport which is also part of Britain's proud Olympic history."

Mr Clegg added that Team GB's Beijing Olympics heroes, who won more medals than any other British Olympic team since 1908, would take part in a victory parade at half-time of the match.