The Barbarians, who famously have no ‘home ground’ have announced that their match against Wales on May 26 (kick-off 7.30) will take place at Aston Gate Stadium.
The BaaBaa’s have already secured the playing services of a number of top international stars including Scott Quinnell (Wales), Percy Montgomery (South Africa), Thomas Castaignede (France), Taine Randell (New Zealand), Raphael Ibanez (France) and Corne Krige (South Africa).
Former Wales captian Quinnell said: “I am very excited at the prospect of wearing the eminent Black & White shirt again. It has always been an honour, but this year will be such a unique experience not only playing amongst other world class players, but against my national side too.”
The Barbarians will play three matches during their Uk Tour, Scotland (22nd May), Wales (26th May) and England (30th May) .
Welsh rugby fans with long memories will recall Wales’ memorable Wales victory over England in 1924, but more recently, Welsh Challenge Cup finals, England ‘A’ internationals, pool fixtures from the 1999 Rugby World Cup and derby matches between Bath and Bristol have all taken place at Aston Gate, and it is renowned for its special atmosphere.
Micky Steele-Bodger, President of the Barbarians, remarked, “Although the Barbarians don’t have a home ground, we do have a long standing and special affinity with Wales. For over eighty years our Easter Tour was centred first on Penarth, then Cardiff and many famous encounters against Australia, South Africa and New Zealand also took place at the Arms Park and Millennium Stadium.
” Due to the clash with football fixtures and the Millennium Stadium commitment with the Football Association we have to move our fixture. Where better than Bristol and another famous sporting venue – Ashton Gate. This year therefore, we are looking forward to entertaining the Welsh national team and their loyal supporters at Ashton Gate. Judging by the performance of Wales in the Rugby World Cup we are in for quite a match!”
