A rugby bonanza is to descend on Singapore with confirmation that Italy and Scotland will play a Test match here on June 10, while the Republic gears up for the HSBC Rugby Sevens next week.
The game between Six Nations sides the Azzurri (world ranking 15) and the Bravehearts (No. 5) will be the first Test match at the National Stadium.
Singapore Rugby Union (SRU) president Low Teo Ping told The Straits Times: "The date (June 10) is available and both teams are agreeable and excited to come to Singapore. So the necessary arrangements were made.
"This will be the first Test match at the Sports Hub and the precursor of many more to come."
The Test in Singapore will be a warm-up for the Italians and the Scots before they head to Fiji and Australia for another series of matches.
The impending arrival of the two Six Nations heavyweights will add gloss to a busy period for the SRU as it prepares to host the HSBC Rugby Sevens at the Sports Hub.
And there are more goodies in store for fans heading to Kallang on April 15 and 16 after Tiger Beer was announced as the tournament's official beer yesterday.
At a press conference held at the f.Club, a nightspot at Clarke Quay, Venus Teoh, Asia Pacific Breweries head of marketing, said: "Tiger Beer is a brand that is born and bred here in Singapore and the HSBC Rugby Sevens is a very exciting event that the brand wants to be associated with."
It is estimated that 90,000 cups of beer were consumed during last year's tournament by 50,000 fans over two days.
But apart from enjoying a cold brew while watching top-class sevens rugby, there are also activities for families.
Said SRU commercial manager Douglas Danapal: "There will be 16 to 24 games booths at the 100Plus Promenade, which is more than double the number compared to last year. There will also be a food and beverage zone.
"(The endorsement deal with Tiger) Beer creates revenue but we must also find a balance by creating alcohol-free zones for the youngsters.
"As for food, there will be halal and vegetarian stalls as well as ice cream and cocktails."
In addition, HSBC Rugby Sevens fans can enjoy discounts and privileges at participating outlets in Clarke Quay upon presentation of their match tickets.
There will also be free shuttle services from the National Stadium to Clarke Quay next Saturday and Sunday from 7.30pm.
•Tickets to the HSBC Singapore 7s are still available and can be bought at singapore7s.sg
