Global Information2013 June rugby union tests information
The 2013 mid-year rugby union tests (also known as the summer internationals in the Northern Hemisphere) were international rugby union matches that were played in June 2013, mostly in the Southern Hemisphere.
These matches were played in the second year of the global rugby calendar established by the International Rugby Board (IRB), which will run until 2019. They included tests between Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere nations, whilst some of the touring teams played mid-week matches against provincial or regional sides.
The international window coincided with the 2013 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia, consisting of a three-test series between the Lions and Australia, plus seven non-test matches. South Africa hosted a quadrangular tournament, with Italy, Samoa and Scotland. France toured New Zealand, playing a three-test series and a mid-week match against the Blues. England played a two-test series against Argentina, after a warm-up match against South American XV, made up of players from Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Uruguay.
Like in 2012, the new global calendar provided expanded Test opportunities for Tier 2 nations. Japan hosted a two-test tour by Wales, their first home matches against a Tier 1 side since their defeat against Italy in 2006. Ireland visited North America, playing one test each against United States and Canada. Argentina played Georgia for the first time on home soil, and for the first time outside the Rugby World Cup.