It is her first match since taking succeeding Prince Harry as the patron of the Rugby Football League, becoming the figurehead for the Rugby Football Union at the same time. She is also the first female royal to hold the position.
Before the match gets underway, the Princess will meet the England and Papua New Guinea teams on the pitch. She will also observe a minute of non-silence, held to mark the tournament’s November Mental Fitness Match Day – a gesture to combat the damaging impact that silence can have upon men’s mental well-being.
During the half-time break, Kate will also meet the England women’s team, who earlier that day will have played Canada in a group match.
Simon Johnson, chair of the RFL, said: “We will be delighted and honoured to welcome the Princess of Wales for the first time as the RFL’s Royal Patron.
“With both our England Women and Men’s teams playing important World Cup matches on Saturday, her presence will enhance a special occasion for our sport, for the World Cup and for the famous rugby league town of Wigan.”
Royal fans will of course be hoping that Kate decides to bring along her eldest son, rugby fan Prince George.
