England fly-half Owen Farrell will face an international team once again this summer as he turns out for the World XV against France in Bilbao.
A selection of world stars will feature against Fabien Galthie's side on June 22 at San Mames - the same day Wales face South Africa and Fiji take on the Barbarians in a double-header at Twickenham.
The likes of Semi Radradra, Camille Lopez, Maxime Machenaud and Billy and Mako Vunipola have all already agreed to turn out for the World XV side, which will be coached by former All Blacks coach Ian Foster.
And now Farrell is set to feature against international opposition for the first time since deciding to step back from Test rugby. The former England captain didn't feature in this year's Six Nations, after making the decision to take a break to "prioritise his and his family's mental well-being".
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Now, as he prepares to turn out for the World XV just like his father, current Ireland coach Andy Farrell, did in 2006, the fly-half has expressed his excitement at the opportunity.
“The prospect of playing for the World XV is incredibly exciting,” said Farrell. “This will be the first time I will have played for an invitation team such as the World XV and joining up with guys you normally line up against for club or country, such as Semi Radradra, Camille Lopez, Maxime Machenaud, in a less pressurised environment is something I am really looking forward to.”
“I am sure the players will want to get out there and play in an entertaining manner and put on an amazing spectacle for the Basque and French people to experience. No doubt the French team will also bring their notorious French flair come matchday too. It should be an awesome week and match in Bilbao.
“My dad played for the World XV in 2006 and combining the history of the World XV with all the players that have represented the team with what will be a very fun week for me, on a personal level will make the whole experience very special."
Speaking about the inclusion of Farrell in the World XV side, Foster said: "I am delighted Owen has made himself available to play for the World XV against France in Bilbao. Having a player of Owen's ability, leadership and experience both at club level for Saracens and International level with England and the British and Irish Lions will be a massive asset to the World XV team.
“Owen has proven to be one of the most influential leaders in world rugby with outstanding contributions both on and off the pitch. Being in the World XV camp for the week will be no different, and I am sure he will be one of the key leaders in setting the tone, driving standards at training and on matchday too.”
Tickets for the match, which kicks off at 4pm local time, are already on sale through www.thematchrugby.com, with prices for adults from €35 and children up to 14 years old from €17.50. Discounts will apply for groups of more than 10 people. Tickets are also on sale at El Corte Inglés and www.marcaentradas.com.
