Bledisloe Cup 2023 dates: When do Australia play New Zealand?

One of international Rugby's most prestigious tournaments has arrived once more, with the 2023 Bledisloe Cup set to kick off on July 29. 

As is tradition, the Wallabies will take on arch-rivals the All Blacks, as they look to secure their first series victory in over 20 years. 

Can the Australians finally break their trans-Tasman hoodoo? Or will it be business as usual for the New Zealanders?

When do Australia play New Zealand in the 2023 Bledisloe Cup?

The 2023 edition of the Bledisloe cup will comprise two matches, with both the Wallabies and the All Blacks given the chance to host one game each. 

Australia will be up first, hosting Game 1 on July 29 at the MCG in Melbourne. 

Game 2 will take place in New Zealand, on August 5 at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin.

What time do Australia play New Zealand?

The first game of the 2023 Bledisloe Cup will kick off at 7:45 pm AEST, at the MCG in Melbourne. 

The second game, taking place at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin, is slated to start at 12:35 pm AEST, or 2:35 pm local time in New Zealand.

Why is the 2023 Bledisloe Cup only two games?

The annual Bledisloe Cup was reduced from three to two games in February of 2022, following a mutual decision due to a sustained period of poor results for Australia, according to Rugby Australia boss Andy Marinos. 

"We've played each a huge amount over the years and we haven't been successful -- it's not because... we're not wanting to look at it -- but we feel for a period it'll be good to have a break, look at other opportunities against other countries," Marinos said. 

Wallabies 2023 Team List