Australia U20s named for inaugural TRC U20 clash with Argentina

April 30, 2024
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Ultimate Rugby

Nathan Grey has named his 23-man playing squad to face Argentina in Thursday’s U20 Rugby Championship opener.

Lock Toby Macpherson leads the side with vice-captain Ronan Leahy lining up at inside centre.

Recent Super Rugby Pacific debutant Jack Barrett headlines a front row including Bryn Edwards and Tevita Alatini with Harvey Cordukes partnering Macpherson in the engine room.

Aussie Sevens prospect Aden Ekanayake joins Reds flanker Joe Liddy and Brumbies number eight Jack Harley in the back row.

In the backline, Force halfback Doug Philipson partners Rebels playmaker Joey Fowler in the halves with Jarrah McLeod outside Leahy in the centres.

Back three trio Xavier Rubens, Will McCulloch and Shane Wilcox round out the Australian starting line-up with Nathaniel Tiitii, Tavi Tuipulotu, Nick Bloomfield, Ben Daniels, Ben Di Staso, Hwi Sharples, Cullen Gray and Angus Staniforth named as finishers.

“We’re excited to see what these 23 young men bring to the gold jersey,” Grey said.

“This first game against Argentina is going to be a real challenge but we’ve prepared well.

“It’s an excellent opportunity to test new combinations and launch our TRC U20 campaign.”

Australia will face Argentina on Thursday 2 May at Sunshine Coast Stadium (7pm kick off).

The match will be shown live and exclusive on Stan Sport.

Australia U20 match-day squad to face Argentina: