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England to play three Tests in Australia in 2016

England's team poses with the Webb Ellis Cup of the 2003 Rugby World Cup final at the Olympic Park Stadium in Sydney on November 22, 2003.       AFP PHOTO
Image: England won the World Cup in Australia in 2003

England will play three Tests against Australia for their summer tour in June next year.

It will be first time in the century-old rivalry between the Wallabies and England that the two nations will meet in a three-Test series.

They will play for the Cook Cup in Brisbane (June 11), Melbourne (June 18) and Sydney (June 25).

They will also meet in the group stage at this year's World Cup at Twickenham on October 3.

England head coach Stuart Lancaster said: "A Test series in Australia is a massive challenge and one to really look forward to.

"We all saw the excitement generated by the three Tests on the British & Irish Lions tour.

"We haven't toured Australia since 2010 so for most of our squad it will be their first opportunity to play a senior Test there and I'm sure it will be a great series."

Stuart Lancaster England
Image: Coach Stuart Lancaster with his England squad

Australian Rugby Union chief executive Bill Pulver said: "With a rivalry that dates back to 1909, it is remarkable that Australia and England have never before played a three-match series and the history of this occasion is sure to add to the anticipation for the tour.”

In the 43 internationals between the two nations, Australia have won 24 and England 18 with one Test drawn.

Coach Cheika said playing England in a three-Test series would be special.

"There is no question that our traditional rivalry with the English will make this three Test series something special," Cheika said.

"To represent your country in three Tests against the old enemy in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney is something that does not happen all the time and I am sure we will make the most of the opportunity."

Australia v England in 2016:

Saturday, June 11:  Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Saturday, June 18: AAMI Park, Melbourne

Saturday, June 25: Allianz Stadium, Sydney

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