Daniel Vidot to Make His USA Hawks Debut Against South Africa

Daniel Vidot, former NRL player, will debut with the USA Hawks against South Africa in Pretoria. He was selected after his performance in the USARL and qualifies under the residency rule. This series is key for both nations’ growth in rugby league, with future competitions on the horizon. The matches are set to be streamed live, allowing fans to engage in this significant event.

Former professional rugby league player Daniel Vidot is poised to make his international debut for the United States as a member of the USA Hawks in the opening Test against South Africa on Wednesday in Pretoria. Having a distinguished career in the NRL with 114 matches played across several clubs, Vidot earned his spot on the Hawks roster after showcasing his skills with the DC Slayers in the USARL’s north-east Rugby League United conference.

Vidot, 34, previously represented Samoa in 10 international Tests, including the 2013 World Cup and 2014 Four Nations tournament. Relocating to the United States in 2018 to advance his career in WWE, he qualifies for the USA Hawks under the International Rugby League’s five-year residency rule. USA Hawks coach Sean Rutgerson, a former player with the Canberra and North Sydney Bears, has assigned Vidot to play in the centres for the crucial first Test against South Africa.

This upcoming match marks the beginning of a two-Test series in Pretoria, with a second match scheduled for Saturday. Coach Rutgerson expressed enthusiasm for the challenge ahead, stating, “We look forward to this opportunity, two games in South Africa is a real challenge to the players. It is a great chance for them to grow as we continue to build the programme.”

The USA Hawks will also play a double-header against Greece in Las Vegas on February 28, which coincides with significant NRL events in March, including matches at Allegiant Stadium. This series in Pretoria is the first time that the Rhinos will host the Hawks since their last encounter in October 2011, which resulted in a 40-4 victory for the USA.

Both teams have selected only domestic players to further develop rugby league within their countries, with South Africa aiming towards the 2025 World Series. South African coach Fanie Bredenhann noted the importance of this preparation, stating, “This venture will prove to our lads the level of preparation needed, mentally and physically, to compete at this level.”

The South African Rhinos have indicated their ambition to bid for the hosting rights for the 2030 IRL Men’s World Cup and are optimistic about the series against the USA Hawks. Team manager Andre Coetzer expressed, “We are excited to welcome USA Hawks and look forward to what promises to be a competitive and high-quality series of matches.”

Veteran Hawks captain Peter Lupton emphasized the significance of this tour for the USA Rugby League, asserting, “This tour is a great test for the USARL to show the intent of being a strong nation for the next World Cup cycle.” Both Tests are set to be streamed live via www.sarugbyleague.co.za, allowing fans to witness this landmark event.

The article discusses the debut of Daniel Vidot for the USA Hawks during an international rugby league Test series against South Africa. This marks a significant occasion, as it is Vidot’s first representation for the USA after a robust career in the NRL and previous international play for Samoa. The context revolves around the ongoing development of rugby league in the USA and South Africa, highlighting their future aspirations, including the potential for World Cup participation and talent showcases. The matches represent an opportunity for both teams to elevate their competitiveness on the global stage.

In conclusion, Daniel Vidot’s debut for the USA Hawks in the Test series against South Africa is a notable milestone for both the player and the American rugby league community. This series not only serves as a platform for Vidot to showcase his skills but also emphasizes the continuing growth and ambition of rugby league in both nations. As the USA Hawks aim to solidify their stature for future competitions, the matches in Pretoria present crucial opportunities for development and exposure on the international level.

Original Source: www.nrl.com