Historic rivalries return, and exciting new rivalries will be created, as the sixth edition of the National Rugby Championship kicks off this weekend.
Saturday 31 August
NSW Country v Sydney
Where: Apex Oval, Dubbo
When: 12.00pm AEST, steamed LIVE on FOX SPORTS 505, Kayo Sports and RUGBY.com.au
- NSW Country will look to get their season off to a winning start in the first regional clash of the year when they host rivals Sydney in Dubbo.
- Sydney will be hoping for a fast start their 2019 campaign after a disappointing 2018
Melbourne Rising v Canberra Vikings
Where: Box Hill Rugby Club, Melbourne
When: 1.30pm AEST, steamed LIVE on Kayo Sports and RUGBY.com.au
- Melbourne Rising are getting into the club spirit by hosting their opening fixture at Box Hill Rugby Club.
- The Canberra Vikings have named a starting squad with 12 players boasting Super Rugby experience, while Darcy Swain will skipper the side for the first time.
Brisbane City v Fijian Drua
Where: GPS Rugby Club, Brisbane
When: 3.00pm AEST, steamed LIVE on Kayo Sports and RUGBY.com.au
- Brisbane City has named a new look side for their first outing for 2019, with the possibility of up to seven NRC debutants featuring in their match day 23.
- Defending Champions, Fijian Drua begin their title defence against the only side to have claimed the NRC title twice.
Western Force v Queensland Country
Where: UWA, Perth
When: 3.00pm AWST, steamed LIVE on Kayo Sports and RUGBY.com.au
- The Western Force will be looking for revenge against the Force in 2019, following their elimination from finals contention in 2018 when they went down to Queensland Country 45-24 in the semi-finals.
- After two consecutive appearances in the NRC Grand Final, Queensland Country are expected to be in the mix again come finals time
