FxPro Super Rugby 2012 – HSBC Waratahs v Queensland Reds
Saturday February 25, ANZ Stadium (7.40pm)
As sporting rivalries go, it doesn’t get much bigger.
Next Saturday’s opening round battle between fierce interstate rivals the HSBC Waratahs and Queensland Reds is a culmination of 130 years of sporting rivalry. This year marks the 130th anniversary of the birth of the NSW Waratahs. Formed in 1882, the first ever match was against fierce rivals Queensland. Continuing one of Australian sport’s oldest sporting rivalries, these two teams will kick-off the 2012 FxPro Super Rugby season next Saturday, when a program of special celebrations is planned for this significant milestone.
Up and coming second division subbies side Balmain boasts its own sporting battle. The Balmain vs Petersham rivalry has been stoked over recent years with both playing in the same Division and only Parramatta Road dividing their territory. Promoted to Division 2 for 2012, the ferocious battles look set to continue this year, no more so that at ANZ Stadium next weekend when the two meet in a curtain raiser to the main event.
And with this week’s announcement that Balmain’s line up will include global rugby superstar Sebastien Chabal, the match should prove a huge draw card for NSW fans hoping to enjoy a night of unforgettable action.
"We had a spot in our international roster with Matt (Giteau) now playing in France. We looked for the biggest profile rugby player in the world and that's Chabal,'' Balmain club president Warren Livingstone told the Daily Telegraph yesterday.
Reportedly the highest paid rugby player on the planet, the presence of the Caveman will undoubtedly encourage NSW fans to take their seats early. With over 30,000 expected to travel to ANZ Stadium for Rivalry Round, the 6pm curtain raiser looks set to whet the appetite for what promises to be a night of exciting rugby, as arch rivals NSW and Queensland battle it out for the latest honours in 130 years of rugby history.
Tickets for the round one blockbuster between the HSBC Waratahs and Reds at ANZ Stadium on Saturday, February 25 (7.40pm) include the 6pm curtain raiser between Balmain and Petersham and are on public sale from www.ticketek.com.au or by calling 132 849, priced from $20 for adults and $50 for a family of four .
An HSBC Waratahs membership is your ticket to a number of exciting benefits including the chance to drive away from the SFS in a Volvo C70 Convertible, valued at over $77,000.
Membership packages start from just $38 for a 2 Game Associate adult package. To receive all the benefits of being an HSBC Waratahs member and the chance to win these fantastic prizes, sign up online at www.waratahs.com.au/win by March 21, 2012 or call membership services on 1300 733 899.