St Helens and Penrith set to clash in World Club Challenge as date and venue revealed

Super League champions St Helens could be set to make a 21,000 mile round trip to face NRL champions Penrith Panthers in the first World Club Challenge fixture since 2020.

The annual pre-season contest was cancelled in 2021 and 2022 due to Covid-19, however the Panthers are keen to host St Helens in 2023.

If the game gets the green light it will likely take place in Sydney next February, according to The Sydney Morning Herald.

Penrith were reluctant to travel to England considering the amount of squad members that are taking part in the World Cup.

“It would have been impossible for us to go over there, but talk of them coming over here is excellent,” Panthers CEO Brian Fletcher told the Herald.

"We’ve only got word today that our second trial, instead of being against another Aussie side, could result in Saints coming to Sydney.

“We’d love for it to happen. It will be great for the area, it’s something different. It will also give some of our younger boys the chance to have a run against a quality side.”

The Saints and Panthers have both dominated their respected competitions over the past few seasons.Penrith have won the last two NRL premierships, while St Helens have taken out the last four Super League grand finals.

The last time a World Club Challenge clash was held in Australia was in 2018 which saw the Melbourne Storm thrash traditional English powerhouse Leeds Rhinos 38-4.

St Helens coach Paul Wellens and Panthers coach Ivan Cleary are keen to see the game go ahead.