Demons, Lions to play in China
21/11/2009 9:37 AM
The AFL has announced details of the first ever match in China with Melbourne and Brisbane set to clash in Shanghai in October 2010.
AFL general manager of national and international development David Matthews said the match was a wonderful opportunity to showcase Australian football in China.
"We are extremely excited to be able to bring Australia's indigenous game and all its unique skills to Shanghai as we continue to develop the code internationally," he said.
The stadium at the Jiangwan Sports Centre in Yangpu District has a capacity of up to 30,000 spectators and it's hoped two local university teams will participate in a curtain raiser to the match.
Melbourne CEO Cameron Schwab hopes the game will further develop relationships built during a visit to the country in 2008.
"To be part of an event like this, which showcases our club and the game on the world stage, is very special. We also see this trip as an amazing cultural experience to benefit both our players and staff," he said.
The Lions were thrilled to be of the landmark match.
"The AFL exhibition match is a wonderful opportunity to develop and promote our code to a massive international market," Brisbane chief executive Michael Bowers said.