Wales coach Harris is a former dual code Wales international

Wales will face Italy, Scotland Ireland and France in October as they target Four Nations qualification.

Italy will play at Wrexham on 3 October and Colwyn Bay on 6 October in two friendly warm-up internationals.

Wales' European Cup defence then begins against Scotland in Glasgow on 9 October before Ireland visit Neath on 17 October.

The final game of their autumn Test series will be against France in Albi on 23 October.

The winners of the European Cup will qualify to play against England, Australia and New Zealand in the 2011 Four Nations.

"To say that this year is big for Wales Rugby League is an understatement," said Wales Rugby League executive chairman Mark Rowley.

"We're facing the biggest autumn of rugby league for Wales since the World Cup came to us in 2000.

"If we finish European Champions again, then we'll qualify for the Four Nations in 2011 to face England, Australia and New Zealand.

"This is one of the biggest goals that our players will ever face and they're all up for the challenge.

"Iestyn Harris is already building a capable squad but we know that we have to be even better than last year, especially against France in Albi as they will be a tough side to beat.

"We're all looking forward to it and we'll need all of Wales' support for every game."

The Welsh side will also take part in the Carnegie Floodlit Nines tournament on 25 August.

The first Italy friendly on 3 October is the day after the Super League Grand Final and any players taking part in the Old Trafford showpiece will not be considered by Iestyn Harris.

Wales coach Harris is then expected to name an experimental side for the second Italy game to try out the fringe players in his squad.

Wales' rugby league side's schedule:

Wednesday, 25 August:
Carnegie Floodlit Nines (Headingley, Leeds; 1600 BST start)

Sunday, 3 October
Wales v Italy (friendly international; Racecourse Ground, Wrexham; 1400 BST)

Wednesday, 6 October
Wales v Italy (friendly international; Colwyn Bay RFC; time tbc)

Saturday, 9 October
Scotland v Wales (European Cup; Glasgow; 1400 BST)

Sunday, 17 October
Wales v Ireland (European Cup; The Gnoll, Neath; 1400 BST)

Saturday, 23 October
France v Wales (European Cup; Albi; 1400 BST)

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