Dunedin appears to have missed out on an All Blacks test in 2026.<\/p>\n
There could be sweet to go with the sour when an announcement is made, however, as it seems the city is in line to host a clash between the All Blacks and Scotland in 2027 as a warm-up for the Rugby World Cup in Australia.<\/p>\n
There will be just four tests on New Zealand soil next year as the All Blacks spend a chunk of the winter in South Africa as part of the \u2018\u2018Greatest Rivalry\u2019\u2019 tour.<\/p>\n
Christchurch\u2019s new stadium was always going to be allocated one of those home tests, so the prospect of Forsyth Barr Stadium getting one appeared remote.<\/p>\n
A New Zealand Rugby (NZR) spokesman said an announcement on the test schedule was expected this week.<\/p>\n
The\u00a0Otago Daily Times\u00a0understands the All Blacks\u2019 first test of 2026, against France as part of the new Nations Championship, will be played at the Christchurch stadium in July.<\/p>\n
The All Blacks will then play Italy in Wellington, and a test against Ireland at Eden Park will complete the first section of the Nations Championship.<\/p>\n
After their four tests – three in South Africa and one at a venue to be confirmed, possibly Twickenham – against the Springboks, the All Blacks will play the Wallabies at Eden Park.<\/p>\n
Dunedin missed out on tests in 2019 (World Cup year) and 2020 (Covid) but the All Blacks have played in the city each year since.<\/p>\n
The 2024 test, against England, had an estimated economic impact to Dunedin of nearly $14 million.<\/p>\n
While 2026 is off the table, there is growing speculation Dunedin will get a test in 2027, which may feature four home fixtures.<\/p>\n
It is understood NZR and Scotland rugby have been talking about a test, likely in September 2027, that would suit both teams as preparation for the World Cup in Australia.<\/p>\n
Scotland have not played in New Zealand since 2000 and the link with Dunedin is fairly obvious given the southern city\u2019s Scottish roots.<\/p>\n