Barrow Raiders are excited to confirm that the club will play host to the return of Cumbria’s representative side against Nigeria this November.
The fixture will take place on Sunday 2 November (2pm kick-off).
It will see Cumbria return to the field for the first time since 2023, with the squad set to contain a mixture of players who both play in the local area currently, and also those who hail from the region.
The club are 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, who have 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, Barrow-in-Furness, 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.”
Ade Adebisi, vice-chairman of Nigeria Rugby League, 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.”
Nigeria Rugby League operations director Adam Sada said: This invitation from Cumbria is more than just a match. It’s a powerful symbol of how rugby league connects communities across continents.
“For Nigeria Rugby League, it’s an opportunity to showcase our passion, talent and pride on an international stage.
“We believe this game will inspire young players, unite fans and highlight the global future of our sport. We’re excited to be part of something truly special.
Northern Competitions founder Ryan Dodgson said: “We are thrilled to play our part in seeing a Cumbrian representative side return to a rugby league field.
“As a company with roots firmly embedded in the local community, we know how much this Cumbrian team means to so many people.
“To be able to support its return against Nigeria is something we are really excited by, and we hope to see as many people as possible join us at the Northern Competitions Stadium on November 2 to show their support.”
Sponsorship opportunities
The Cumbrian management team will be looking to sell further sponsorship packages for both playing kits, training wear and matchday hospitality packages.
They are also on the lookout for a travel partner to help fund the UK travel of the visiting team.
If your business is interested in supporting the fixture in any way, please email sneale6310@hotmail.com or michelle.simm@barrowrlfc.com
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