Watch New Zealand vs England: Live Stream the 2024 Rugby Union First Test from Dunedin

How to Watch New Zealand vs England: Your Guide to Streaming the First Test from Dunedin

The anticipation is palpable as rugby enthusiasts across the globe prepare for the 2024 Rugby Union Internationals' first test match between New Zealand and England. This high-stakes clash is set to unfold on July 6, 2024, at the Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin, New Zealand. Rugby fans from all corners of the world are eager to tune in, and we’ve got you covered with all the information you need to catch the action live.

Global Streaming Options: NZR+ and More

For rugby lovers in numerous countries, New Zealand Rugby’s streaming service, NZR+, offers a golden opportunity. This service will broadcast the match for free in countries including Albania, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Georgia, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Turkey, and Ukraine. It is essential for viewers in these regions to sign up for a free account on the NZR+ website. Once registered, they can stream the match without any cost, ensuring no one misses out on the rugby spectacle.

If you find yourself outside your home country and facing geo-restrictions, fret not. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can come to your rescue. Utilizing a VPN allows you to unblock your usual streaming service from anywhere in the world, so you can catch every thrilling moment without compromise.

Local Broadcasting Channels

In New Zealand, the match won’t be confined to the digital realm. Sky Sport NZ will provide comprehensive coverage, making sure Kiwis are glued to their screens. For South African fans, the match will be available on SuperSport, a widely trusted platform for top-tier sports events. FloRugby will cater to audiences in the United States, bringing American fans closer to the heart-pounding action. Meanwhile, in Australia, Stan Sport will be delivering the broadcast, ensuring no sports enthusiast down under is left out.

The Significance of This Match

This match is more than just a test; it’s the dawn of a new era for the New Zealand All Blacks. Under the guidance of their new coach, Scott Robertson, the team will be aiming to build a formidable squad and reclaim their dominance on the global stage. The All Blacks are renowned for their rich history and exceptional prowess on the field; thus, eyes will be closely watching how Robertson's fresh strategies and tactics unfold.

On the other hand, England's coach, Steve Borthwick, is already enjoying a streak of recent successes and is determined to maintain and even improve upon this momentum. This match against the All Blacks is more than just another item on the calendar; it’s an opportunity to solidify their growing reputation as a formidable team.

Looking back, the teams last met in November 2022 at Twickenham in London. That encounter ended in a thrilling 30-30 draw, leaving fans hungry for more and setting the stage for another epic showdown. Both teams have since evolved, with players striving to carve out their places in rugby history. The match in Dunedin promises to be a display of skill, determination, and raw athleticism.

Match Venue: Forsyth Barr Stadium

The venue for this much-anticipated match is none other than the renowned Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin, New Zealand. Known for its innovative design and being New Zealand’s only completely covered stadium, Forsyth Barr offers a unique blend of an outdoor experience with the comfort of an indoor setting. Such attributes ensure that neither rain nor shine can affect the playing conditions, allowing the players to perform at their peak capacity.

The stadium boasts a seating capacity of approximately 30,000, creating an intimate yet electrifying atmosphere. It's a place where the echoes of cheering fans amplify the intensity of the game, making every match held here a memorable experience. For many rugby fans, catching a game at Forsyth Barr is a pilgrimage, a chance to witness rugby at its finest in a venue designed to magnify every play.

Key Players to Watch

This match will showcase some of the brightest talents in rugby. New Zealand’s squad is packed with players who have already made names for themselves and those who are keen to prove their mettle. Names like Beauden Barrett and Sam Whitelock are often synonymous with exceptional performances and will be critical to the All Blacks' strategy.

In the English camp, players like Maro Itoje and Owen Farrell are expected to bring their A-game. Known for their strategic minds and physical prowess, these individuals have the capability to turn the tide of the match. Their performance will be under scrutiny, not just from their coaches and fans but from the global rugby community.

As the day of the match approaches, anticipation builds. Fans from around the world are marking their calendars and setting reminders to ensure they are part of this historic event. Whether you're catching the game from the comfort of your home or planning to be at Forsyth Barr Stadium, this is one match you don't want to miss.