Newcastle will host its first Waratahs match next year after the Super Rugby franchise announced it will bring its clash with the Sunwolves to McDonald Jones Stadium on March 29.

NSW Rugby chief executive Andrew Hore said it was a significant chapter in the history of the team to bring the match to Newcastle while their regular home at Allianz Stadium is knocked down and rebuilt as part of the state government’s $1.5 billion stadium plan.

Second home: Local product Harry Johnson-Holmes at the Waratahs announcement in Newcastle. Credit:Simone De Peak

“The NSW Waratahs are a state team and the next three years provide us with a great opportunity to take Super Rugby to different venues and showcase the game from the bush to the beach,” Hore said.

“The City of Newcastle, as the official sponsor, are working with us hand in hand to deliver what promises to be a great event.