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The Republic of Ireland will warm up for their vital World Cup qualifier against Cyprus in September with a friendly against Australia at the home of Munster Rugby.

Giovanni Trapattoni's side, who are currently level on points with World champions Italy at the top of Group 8, will face the Socceroos at the redeveloped 26,000-capacity Thomond Park Stadium in Limerick on Wednesday, August 12.

It will be the first time Ireland have played a senior international game in Limerick, and the first time the home of Munster Rugby has hosted a major football fixture.

John Delaney, chief executive officer of the Football Association of Ireland, said: "I am very happy to have reached this agreement with Thomond Park Stadium.

"I thank the stadium's management and Board for their foresight in opening up Thomond Park to other sports, which will enable us to bring senior international football to Limerick for the first time.

"Thomond Park is a great sporting venue and we look forward to an exciting game against Australia in August."

Trapattoni's men will travel to Cyprus on September 5 for a game which could have a major say in their chances of reaching the finals in South Africa.

They beat the Cypriots 1-0 at Croke Park in October courtesy of skipper Robbie Keane's strike.

Reuters