ENGLAND'S first full international for three years will be held just eight days before the 2021 Rugby League World Cup.

It has been confirmed Shaun Wane's side will take on Fiji on Friday, October 15 in a World Cup warm-up match.

The game will take place at Rochdale's Crown Oil Arena as part of Rochdale Hornets' 150th anniversary celebrations and to recognise the town's firm links with Fiji.

England Head Coach Shaun Wane said: “This fixture will be a vital part of our preparations for the World Cup, and I’d like to thank Rochdale Hornets and the Fiji National Rugby League for making this happen.

"The Bati are a very talented side individually and collectively, and I wish them well at RLWC2021.”

Wane's first game in charge of England will be in Warrington, with The Halliwell Jones Stadium hosting the mid-season clash with the Combined Nations All-Stars on Friday, June 25.

Rochdale's relationship with the Pacific nation stretches back more than 50 years after the arrival of four Fijian rugby players in the early 1960s; Orisi Dawai and Josefa Levula becoming the first of their countrymen to play in England and creating a Rochdale legacy.

Voate Drui and Liatia Ravouvou soon followed in the early 60s, and the strong connection between the club and Fiji lives on, which has also seen Mike Ratu senior, his son Emon - and his grandson Mike junior - all represent the Hornets - while Joe Taira is a current squad member.

Rochdale Hornets chief executive Steve Kerr added: “We're delighted to announce our flagship event as part of our 150th anniversary celebrations.

"To welcome Fiji back to Rochdale and continue our cultural links with the island nation is an absolute privilege and honour.

“Supporting Shaun Wane and his England team in their preparations ahead of the 2021 World Cup is simply incredible and the icing on the cake.

"I’d like to personally thank Ralph Rimmer and the RFL, Don Natabe (Fijian CEO), the World Cup team and the International Rugby League for helping to make this event possible.

"We now look forward to showcasing the game under the lights on a Friday night at a sell-out Crown Oil Arena."

Due to current circumstances just 2,000 tickets are available until further notice, so supporters are advised to purchase early.

Tickets are available for purchase online now at hornetsrugbyleague.co.uk/tickets-new/tickets.