Barrow Raiders are to host a Cumbrian representative side when they meet Nigeria later this year.
The game has been announced for Sunday, November 2 with a 2pm kick-off.
It will be the first time that Cumbria has played since 2023 and the squad will be a mix of players from the three county pro sides and those from the county who ply their trade in Super League or other senior clubs.
A Barrow spokesman said: “The club is honoured to be hosting a Cumbrian side for the first time in more than a decade, and we are sure that the local community will get right behind the squad – as they did against Jamaica and Wales in recent years.
“Our heartfelt thanks go to main club sponsors Northern Competitions, which has agreed to sponsor the fixture.
“Without their support and generosity, we would not be in a position to confirm this international fixture.
Another local club sponsor, Holiday Inn Express in Barrow, can also be confirmed as official hotel partners for the game.
“As part of this agreement, the Nigerian team will be basing themselves at the hotel throughout the weekend of the game.
“Cumbria are once again expected to be led by Raiders head coach Paul Crarey. His backroom team for the fixture will be confirmed in due course.”
Barrow Raiders chairman Steve Neale said: “As a club, it means a great deal to be hosting Nigeria for their first-ever overseas international fixture later this year.
“As we saw in 2022 and 2023, there is a clear appetite for a Cumbrian representative side.
“This area couldn’t be any more passionate about its rugby, and so being able to host an up-and-coming rugby league nation like Nigeria will allow us to enjoy a real day of celebration.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has played a part, big or small, in making this fixture happen. As a club and community, we cannot wait for Cumbria’s return.”
Former Whitehaven player Ade Adebisi appeared for the West Cumbrian side 49 times in 2008 and 2009, scoring 32 tries.
He is now vice-chairman of Nigeria Rugby League and said: “From Cumbria to Lagos, this is more than a game – it’s a historic homecoming.
“As a proud British-Nigerian and former Whitehaven player, returning to Cumbria with the Nigerian national team is incredibly personal.
“This county gave me one of the most defining seasons of my professional career. It sharpened me, challenged me and gifted me memories I still carry today.
“Now, as vice-chairman of Nigeria Rugby League, to lead our men’s team onto UK soil for our first-ever international fixture – right here in Cumbria – is truly historic.
“Years ago, I took the lessons I learned in the UK and, alongside a few passionate pioneers, helped build rugby league in Nigeria from the ground up. What started as a dream is now a growing reality.
“This match isn’t just a game. It’s a bridge between nations – a celebration of shared heritage, resilience and the power of sport to unite communities.
“Nigeria is blessed with some of the most talented players of Nigerian heritage currently playing rugby league in the UK.
“This fixture is a chance to showcase that talent and open the door to deeper engagement between both nations through sport.
“I hope this inspires the next generation of British-Nigerians and African athletes. Because when passion meets purpose, borders don’t divide us – they connect us.”
