Australia U20’s Head Coach Simon Cron has named his side to play Samoa U20’s at Bond University on the Gold Coast this Friday night.
Included in the mix are six NSW Gen Blue players; four of those have made the starting line-up including prop Harry Chapman and lock Ryan McCauley, who are returning for their second year of national duties.
NSW Gen Blue Head Coach Pat McCutcheon is excited to see what his squad members can do on the international stage.
“The squad worked incredibly hard this year, each of them developing their own skill sets and have now earned the right to represent their country”, said McCutcheon.
James Ramm, at 19 years of age, is set to make his debut for the Australian U20’s wing. Joining Ramm as debutant are Gen Blue team mates Harry Johnson-Holmes, Tom Horton, Lachlan Swinton and Theo Strang.
Gen Blue’s dominance in the front row did not go unnoticed, with both starting prop positions as well as the reserve hooker jersey filled by emerging NSW talent.
McCutcheon was more than pleased that three of his forwards made the starting line-up.
“This year in the Super U20’s Championship our forwards displayed week in, week out, their dominance in set piece and in their physicality”, he said.
The former NSW Waratah backrower made mention to the strengthened pathway put in place at NSW HQ.
“With continual improvements to the EPD (Elite Player Youth Development) system here at the NSW Waratahs, we expect to see more of our players progressing through the ranks”, said McCutcheon.
The Australia U20’s take on Samoa Friday April 28 at 7PM AEST at Bond University. You can stream the match LIVE on www.rugby.com.au.
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1. Harry Johnson-Holmes, NSW U20s |