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The All Blacks are being tipped to line out against Ireland in a neutral test in New Jersey as part of New Zealand's new agreement with the United States rugby union.
The two countries signed a five-year deal yesterday that will see New Zealand help the development of the American game while hoping to cash in on lucrative commercial opportunities in the massive United States market.
The New Zealand Rugby Union has made no secret of its desire to have the All Blacks playing glamour matches in neutral venues where significant revenue can be generated.
NZRU officials are currently in Hong Kong finalising arrangements for a test there against Australia in October.
But there is clearly appeal in tapping into the United States where rugby remains stalled in its infancy despite plenty of resources.
The large Irish population in New York and New Jersey lends itself to the possibility of a test being played there.
In following up yesterday's announcement TV3 has suggested a test between the All Blacks and Ireland was a real possibility as early as next year.
NZRU officials certainly didn't squash that suggestion and USA rugby officials said a test involving New Zealand and Ireland at the famous Giants Stadium in New Jersey would be "a dream" for American rugby.
The United States is a natural stopover for the All Blacks on the way to their traditional end of year tours to Europe and a mid-year date could also tie in with the end of European season.
Whether the All Blacks step up to play the American Eagles is another matter.
The All Blacks have only played the United States three times - winning 51-3 in California way back in 1913 and then winning 53-6 in San Diego in 1980 and lastly 46-6 at the 1991 World Cup in England.
New Zealand Maori have had involvement with the US national side through the Churchill Cup.
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