Canada have been confirmed as Ireland’s opposition for the opening Test of the 2016 Guinness Series.
It will be the eighth time Ireland have faced Canada - the last time being the opening game of Pool D of Rugby World Cup 2015 where Ireland ran out 50-7 winners at a packed Millennium Stadium.
Canada’s two previous visits to Ireland were at Lansdowne Road in 1997 and at Thomond Park in 2008.
IRFU CEO Philip Browne said: "Canada's performances at the recent Rugby World Cup illustrated the exciting and skilful brand of rugby that they are developing.
“We are delighted that we will have the opportunity to welcome Canada to the Aviva Stadium for the first time.”
Rugby Canada's National Programme Manager Gareth Rees said he is looking forward to the challenge: "Canada is delighted to confirm the fixture with Ireland in November 2016. Canada showed it can compete with Tier One nations at Rugby World Cup 2015.
“We look forward to the challenge Ireland poses on the field but also renewing the special relationship between Canada and Ireland."
The series opener against Canada will take place on Saturday 12 November at the Aviva Stadium. Ireland then play New Zealand on the 19 November before completing the three-game series against Australia on 26 November.
