Bristol Bears have organised another massive showpiece event to kick off the 2023/24 season with the Barbarians coming to Ashton Gate in September.
Following the success of last season’s 26-18 win against South Africa in an exhibition game which drew a record crowd at Ashton Gate, Bristol have invited the BaaBaas to the West Country on Thursday, September 7th (7.30pm KO).
The Bears will tune up for the fixture with a pre-season game at home against Exeter Chiefs on Friday, September 1 and then the competitive season will get underway the following weekend when the revamped Premiership Rugby Cup kicks off with Championship clubs included in the competition next season.
Bristol will likely have a strong side for the Barbarians clash with only a handful of players expected to be away on World Cup duty, with Ellis Genge, Kyle Sinckler and Max Malins set to be with England, Chris Vui with Samoa and Kalaveti Ravouvou with Fiji. Steven Luauta could run out for Tonga having switched his international allegiances from New Zealand and Harry Randall and Callum Sheedy will be hoping England and Wales respectively come calling but currently find themselves out of the loop.
At this time there is no news on who will play for the Barbarians with most of the game’s biggest names set to be on international duty with the Rugby World Cup in France kicking off the following day, however they are plenty of big name players who will not be involved in the tournament.
Tickets for the Barbarians game go on priority sale to 2023/24 season ticket holders (max three tickets during priority period) from 10am on Wednesday, May 3rd before general sale opens at 10am on Friday, May 5th.
2023/24 season ticket holders will need to buy a ticket for the fixture.
Adult tickets start from just £20 with juniors from £10. Groups of 10 or more can take advantage of ticket discounts in the South Stand or Dolman Stand wings.
Tickets go on general sale at 10am Friday, May 5th.
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