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

New Zealand U20

26/06/2025By: ALLBLACKS.COM

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.

The powerful loose forward trio of Finn McLeod, Caleb Woodley, and Mosese Bason remains together following their performances in the recent U20 Rugby Championship tournament held in South Africa.

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:

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: Shaun Kempton, Dane Johnston, Robson Faleafā, Randall Baker,Micah Fale, Jai Tamati, Tayne Harvey, Harlyn Saunoa

Game day information:

New Zealand v Italy

Monday June 30, 6:30am NZT

Live on Sky Sport NZ

Highlights on NZR+