The 2024 final highlighted the raw pace and physicality of a promising New Zealand Under 20 side, and several key players from that match return to spearhead the campaign once again. Hooker Manumaua Letiu, a try-scorer in last year’s decider, now leads the team as captain. He is joined by dynamic backs Rico Simpson and Stanley Solomon, both of whom played pivotal roles in the previous tournament. The leadership group is further strengthened by vice-captains Mosese Bason and Dylan Pledger, providing continuity and valuable experience across the squad’s core.
Head Coach Milton Haig has assembled a balanced team that combines seasoned performers with emerging prospects. The loose forward trio of Xavier Treacy, Aio Keith, and Bason offers strength and versatility, while the backline is poised to deliver attacking flair through the likes of Simpson, Harlyn Saunoa, and Solomon.
New Zealand U20 v Australia U20
1 Sika Pole
2 Manumaua Letiu (c)
3 Robson Faleafā
4 Randall Baker
5 Josh Tengblad
6 Xavier Treacy
7 Aio Keith
8 Mosese Bason (vc)
9 Dylan Pledger (vc)
10 Rico Simpson
11 Harlyn Saunoa
12 Jack Wiseman
13 Cooper Roberts
14 Maloni Kunawave
15 Stanley Solomon
Replacements:
16 Eli Oudenryn
17 Tamiano Ahloo
18 Dane Johnston
19 Dylan Eti
20 Micah Fale
21 Charlie Sinton
22 Will Cole
23 David Lewai
Australia U20 head coach Chris Whitaker has named his side to face New Zealand U20 tomorrow in the opening game of The Rugby Championship U20 in South Africa.
The Rugby Championship U20 runs Thursday 1 May to Sunday 11 May, with all games taking place at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), and broadcast live and on-demand on Stan Sport.
The team's matches against New Zealand U20, South Africa U20 and Argentina U20 will serve as their final competitive hit-outs ahead of the World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy in June and July.
Australia U20 vs. New Zealand U20
1. Finn Baxter (ACT Brumbies, Gungahlin Eagles)
2. Ollie Barrett (Western Force, Associates RUFC)
3. Kaleb Ah-Colt (NSW Waratahs, Randwick)
4. Eamon Doyle (c) (NSW Waratahs, Sydney University)
5. Joe Mangelsdorf (NSW Waratahs, Sydney University)
6. Jacob Veiru (NSW Waratahs, Eastern Suburbs)
7. Eli Langi (ACT Brumbies, Tuggeranong Vikings)
8. Beau Morrison (ACT Brumbies, Sydney University)
9. Hwi Sharples (NSW Waratahs, Sydney University)
10. Joey Fowler (NSW Waratahs, Sydney University)
11. Sid Harvey (Australia Sevens)
12. Boston Fakafanua (Western Force, Wests Scarborough)
13. Liam Grover (NSW Waratahs, Sydney University)
14. Cooper Watters (NSW Waratahs, Eastern Suburbs)
15. Shane Wilcox (ACT Brumbies, Tuggeranong Vikings)
16. Lipina Ata (ACT Brumbies, Gungahlin Eagles)
17. Trevor King (Queensland Reds, Souths)
18. Nick Hill (NSW Waratahs, Warringah)
19. Charlie Brosnan (Queensland Reds, Brothers)
20. Toby Brial (NSW Waratahs, Eastern Suburbs)
21. James Martens (Queensland Reds, GPS Rugby Club)
22. Joe Dillon (ACT Brumbies, Canberra Royals)
23. Nick Conway (Queensland Reds, Wests Bulldogs)
