New Zealand team named for World Rugby Under 20 Championship game against Italy

The New Zealand Men’s Under 20 team has been named for their opening match of the World Rugby Under 20 Championship, where they will face host nation Italy in Calvisano.  

This clash marks the beginning of New Zealand’s campaign to claim the world title for the first time since 2017.  

The powerful loose forward trio of Finn McLeod, Caleb Woodley, and Mosese Bason remains together following their performances in May, when New Zealand triumphed over South Africa to win the U20 Rugby Championship.  

A refreshed backline sees Stanley Solomon shift from fullback to wing, where he will join forces with sevens standout Frank Vaenuku, adding pace and flair to the outside channels. 

New Zealand team v Italy:

Starting:

1. Sika Pole  
2. Manumaua Letiu (c)  
3. Logan Wallace  
4. Xavier Treacy  
5. Jayden Sa  
6. Finn McLeod  
7. Caleb Woodley  
8. Mosese Bason (vc)  
9. Dylan Pledger (vc)  
10. Will Cole  
11. Stanley Solomon  
12. Jack Wiseman  
13. Cooper Roberts  
14. Frank Vaenuku  
15. Rico Simpson  

Impact:

16. Shaun Kempton  
17. Dane Johnston  
18. Robson Faleafā  
19. Randall Baker  
20. Micah Fale  
21. Jai Tamati  
22. Tayne Harvey  
23. Harlyn Saunoa  

Game day information:  

New Zealand v Italy 

Monday June 30, 6:30am NZT  

Sky Sport NZ