New Zealand-Barbarians approved by Rugby Football Union
Wednesday 22 March 2017 16:17, UK
New Zealand's November meeting with the Barbarians has been approved by the Rugby Football Union, apparently ending England's chances of facing the All Blacks this year.
A statement from the Baa-Baas said the RFU had sanctioned the use of Twickenham for the November 4 contest, which still requires the approval of the New Zealand board.
The RFU last week said it was exploring the possibility of an England-New Zealand game in the autumn, but Eddie Jones' side start a run of three Tests on November 11.
Barbarians chairman John Spencer said: "The entire Barbarians committee would like to thank the RFU for approving this fixture against New Zealand.
"For the record, and contrary to some recent media reports, the Barbarians have a strong and very collaborative relationship with the RFU, and any suggestion that the RFU has not acted correctly in any part of the discussions around staging this fixture is unfair and wrong."
England recently matched New Zealand's record of 18 straight Test wins, but the world champions have won the sides' past five meetings.
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