World champions South Africa are hoping to play a one-off Test against Ireland in the United Arab Emirates later this year.

The Springboks plan to launch their northern hemisphere tour in the Middle East in November, before heading to the UK for matches against Wales, Scotland and England.

If the event proves a success, South Africa will seek to play more fixtures in the region, with a Tri-Nations match against Australia on the agenda for 2009.

The Mandela Challenge match against Ireland is awaiting final approval from the International Rugby Board.