New Zealand U20s named to face France in semifinal

The New Zealand Under 20s will face France in the semi-finals of the World Rugby U20 Championship this Tuesday at 4:00am NZT.

The clash is a rematch of last year’s semi-final, where France claimed a 55–31 victory. Four players from that match, Stanley Solomon, Rico Simpson, Dylan Pledger and Mosese Bason, have been named in the starting line-up and will be eager to turn the tables this time around.

There are two changes to the team that defeated Ireland in the final round of pool play. Rico Simpson shifts from fullback to first five-eighth, with Stanley Solomon moving into the 15 jersey.

Up front, prop Sika Pole and lock Xavier Treacy retain their starting spots, continuing their streak of starting every match for New Zealand in 2025.

Team List:

1. Sika Pole

2. Manumaua Letiu (c)

3. Robson Faleafā

4. Xavier Treacy

5. Jayden Sa

6. Finn McLeod

7. Caleb Woodley

8. Mosese Bason (vc)

9. Dylan Pledger (vc)

10. Rico Simpson

11. Maloni Kunawave

12. Jack Wiseman

13. Cooper Roberts

14. Frank Vaenuku

15. Stanley Solomon

16. Eli Oudenryn

17. Israel Time

18. Dane Johnston

19. Aisake Vakasiuola

20. Micah Fale

21. Jai Tamati

22. Tayne Harvey

23. Harlyn Saunoa

New Zealand v France

Tuesday 15 July, 4:00am NZT

Sky Sport NZ