London Irish will play in the first rugby Premiership fixture abroad when they face Saracens in America next spring.

The Exiles will play what will be a home game against the reigning champions in the Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ on March 12, 2016.

The rugby game will take place in the midst of the area's St Patrick’s Day festivities, serving as a celebration of Irish culture for the Irish community New York area.

London Irish Chief Executive Officer, Bob Casey said: “This is an enormous opportunity for London Irish and a chance for our Club to gain exposure in one of the biggest sporting cities in the world.

“The New York region has a significant Irish community and is renowned for its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, so it’s the perfect time for our club to venture into this market.”

He added that the club aims to create a “lasting legacy” in America for both rugby and London Irish.

Mark McCafferty, Premiership Rugby’s Chief Executive said: “This is a significant day in the history of Premiership Rugby and one that has taken a number of years and a lot of hard work to bring to fruition.”

Tickets go on general sale on Friday, October 30 at 2pm.