THE IRFU HAS confirmed that Ireland will face Canada in the opening Test of their 2016 November Test series.

Earlier this month, the IRFU officially announced November fixtures against World Cup finalists New Zealand and Australia, while also confirming a game against an unnamed Tier 2 nation.

Johnny Sexton scores against Canada during the World Cup. Source: Dan Sheridan/INPHO

A statement this evening revealed that Canada, currently ranked 19th in the world, will fill that slot for a fixture on Saturday 12 November.

Ireland will then face New Zealand on Saturday 19 November, before concluding the series with a clash against Australia on Saturday 26 November. The kick-off times for the three fixtures have yet to be announced.

Ireland beat Canada 50-7 in the pool stages of this year’s Rugby World Cup and have played the Canadians on a further six occasions. Next November will be the third time Canada have visited Ireland, having previously played games at Lansdowne Road in 1997 and Thomond Park in 2008.

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“Canada’s performances at the recent Rugby World Cup illustrated the exciting and skilful brand of rugby that they are developing,” said IRFU CEO Philip Brown. “We are delighted that we will have the opportunity to welcome Canada to the Aviva Stadium for the first time.”

2016 Guinness Series Fixtures

Ireland v Canada

Saturday 12 November KO TBC

Aviva Stadium

Ireland v New Zealand

Saturday 19 November KO TBC

Aviva Stadium

Ireland v Australia

Saturday 26 November KO TBC

Aviva Stadium