Barbarians Head Coach John Mulvihill spoke to Swansea RFC before the confirmation of the first group of Barbarians players that will travel down to St Helen’s on 31st May.
“I am honoured to come to Swansea as Head Coach of the Barbarians and am bringing an international squad to embrace the rugby challenge and culture of Swansea RFC.
The Barbarians are really excited about renewing our friendly rivalry with the All Whites of Swansea. To be able to bring a squad back to such an iconic ground in St Helen’s to mark such a special anniversary for the club is a huge honour. As you can see, we are respecting the fixture with a squad packed with internationals and of course, one of Swansea RFC’s favourite sons, Alun-Wyn Jones.
I understand that the teams started playing against each other in 1901 and have played against each other over 80 times with a pretty equal wins for and against record. We last played in 1994 and with Swansea having always been known for their fast flowing rugby, and St Helen’s having such a famously good surface, I’m sure the match will be a fantastic spectacle.”