Bledisloe Cup returns

The trans-Tasman challenge has featured four matches for the last three seasons, with the last one taking place in Tokyo in 2009 and in Hong Kong last year and in 2008.

Despite the success of the overseas excursions, the three Tests will all be played in Australia and New Zealand, the first two on a home and away basis as part of the Tri-nations and the third in alternate years in each country.

"It will help us polish even further the lustrous profile of the Bledisloe Cup, which is our jewel in the crown domestically and arguably the most fiercely contested and high-profile silverware on offer in the game after the World Cup," John O'Neill, chief executive of the Australian Rugby Union, said.

The commercial agreements connected with the 10-year deal were reported in the local media to be worth A$10 million.

New Zealand Rugby Union Chief Executive Steve Tew said the commercial benefits were "compelling", particularly as the ARU had agreed to "fairly share the revenue from matches on both sides of the Tasman".

The Bledisloe Cup was first contested in 1932 and New Zealand have held it since 2003, when the All Blacks ended five years of Australian dominance.

This year's series will be restricted to the two Tri-nations Tests to allow for preparations for the World Cup, which starts in September.