England to face Barbarians ahead of Australia rugby tour

England will play the Barbarians at Twickenham on June 19 as part of their preparations for a tour of Australia, officials announced Thursday.

It will be the first time the teams have met since fly-half Marcus Smith starred in England's 51-43 victory over the invitational side three years ago.

The Barbarians were meant to play Samoa at Twickenham in November but the game was cancelled just 90 minutes before kick-off because of a raft of Covid-19 cases in their camp.

That followed the embarrassment of the Barbarians having to call off a 2020 match against England at Twickenham after it emerged that 13 of their players had breached virus protocols.

England coach Eddie Jones said Thursday: "The Barbarians fixture is a special one in rugby. It's always a good challenge for the players, entertaining for supporters and showcases the spirit of the game.

"It's been great to play back in full stadiums again and we know this game is one that the fans enjoy and we're looking forward to playing in front of the Twickenham crowd. It will also be a good preparation for us ahead of an important tour to Australia."

Barbarians president John Spencer said: "As a club we have of course not had the easiest time coming to Twickenham in recent months.

"We therefore are looking forward to returning as worthy opponents of England in June."