Boks and Wales in US 'warm-up' match

It was confirmed that Wales will face South Africa in Washington, United States, in June.

The match will be the start of a three-Test mid-year tour for Wales.

However, it will be the first opportunity for SA Rugby Union Director of Rugby and Springbok coach Johan Erasmus it is a chance to test his team ahead of their three-match June series against England.

The Boks and Welsh Dragons will go head-to-head on Saturday, June 2 – with the fixture taking place at Washington's RFK Stadium.

This is the first time the Boks will face Tier One opposition on neutral ground outside the World Cup.

It will be the 34th Test between South Africa and Wales, with the Springboks having won 28 Tests, lost four while one encounter ended in a draw, for a winning rate of 85 percent.

Wales won the last two Tests between these teams, both in Cardiff.

SARU CEO Jurie Roux said the Springboks were delighted to play against Wales on US soil.

It will be the Boks' first visit to that country since December 2001, when they beat the USA Eagles, 43-20, in Houston.

"The match in Washington allows us to take Springbok rugby to America and to potentially expand the team's appeal to a very large audience," said Roux.

"Our research shows that the Springboks have a growing worldwide fan base and we see the match in Washington as an ideal platform to tap into a market that offers huge possibilities for South African rugby, in the exciting American sporting area.

"We are also grateful to the Wales Rugby Union for their efforts in making this match a reality and it will get a very challenging international season off to a great start."

Welsh Rugby Union Group CEO, Martyn Phillips said: "This is an exciting fixture for the WRU and for the national squad.

"It enables us to add a third fixture into the squad's schedule as they continue with their preparations for the 2019 World Cup and for the Union it is a great opportunity to showcase Wales and our game in the capital of the United States."