Force pair named in Australia for World Rugby U20 Championship

Mon, Jun 9, 2025, 1:02 AM
WM
by Western Force Media

Fortescue Academy duo Ollie Barrett and Boston Fakafanua have been named in Australia’s 30-player squad for the upcoming World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy.

The squad will assemble in Sydney next week before departing for Italy on Saturday 21 June.

Associates hooker Barrett and Wests Scarborough centre Fakafanua are the Force’s reps in the squad.

The tournament runs Sunday 29 June to Sunday 20 July, with Australia U20 drawn in Pool A alongside defending champions England U20, South Africa U20 and Scotland U20.

NSW Waratahs lock Eamon Doyle retains the captaincy after leading the side in the recent The Rugby Championship U20.

"This group of young men have worked extremely hard to earn the opportunity to represent Australia on the biggest stage in age-grade rugby," Australia U20 head coach Chris Whitaker said.

"They're all excited to pull on the gold jersey and test themselves against the best in the world.

"Every match we play in Italy will present a formidable challenge however we believe our preparation has set us up to meet that challenge."

Every match of the U20 Championship will be broadcast live and on demand on Stan Sport.

Match Schedule:

Australia U20 v South Africa U20

11.30pm AEST Sunday 29 June

Stadio San Michele, Calvisano

Australia U20 v Scotland U20

11.30pm AEST Friday 4 July

Stadio Luigi Zaffanella, Viadana

Australia U20 v England U20

2am AEST Thursday 10 July

Payanini Center, Verona

Semi-Finals

Monday 14 July - Tuesday 15 July

Play-Offs and Final

Saturday 19 July - Sunday 20 July

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