The NSW Waratahs women's team will take part in their first ever trans-Tasman trial match when they travel to New Zealand in February to play two 30-minute games against the reigning Super Rugby Aupiki champions Waitomo Chiefs Manawa and Blues.
The matches will be played as part of a triple header ahead of the men's Chiefs pre-season clash with the Blues on Friday 17th at Pukekohe.
Last year's Super W runners-up for the first time, the Waratahs will spend five days on the road in New Zealand ahead of the high-quality clashes they believe should give them an edge over their Super W opponents this season.
"This tour is massively beneficial for our program as it's the first time we've had the opportunity to get away as a team during the pre-season," Waratahs coach Campbell Aiken said.
"It's a huge year for us as we aim to win back the Super W trophy, and this tour provides us with the chance for our team to test themselves against players they've never played before.
"This tour is something that the Waratahs tried to get across the line last year - we reached out to the NZL franchises last year to try and get some matches in, but unfortunately COVID travel restrictions put paid to that.
"We can't wait to get over there, bring the two competitions closer together, and challenge ourselves in a different environment."
With a trans-Tasman women's competition currently being discussed by Rugby Australia and New Zealand Rugby for the future, February's trial matches will be watched keenly by the respective administrations.
Falling short against Fijiana Drua in last year's Super W final and suffering just their second ever defeat, the Waratahs' four-year title run came to an end. Determined to win back their crown, the Tahs' will be without some of their biggest names with stars Bella McKenzie, Em Chancellor and Lori Cramer to the Premiership 15s competition in England.
The Super W 2023 competition kicks off on Friday March 24.
Waratahs Pre-season trial matches: 2.40pm (NZT)
Blues vs Waratahs
Chiefs Manawa vs Blues
Chiefs Manawa vs Waratahs