NZ U20 team named for Junior World Championship semi-final against France

New Zealand U20

1 hour ago

New Zealand tops pool B to set up blockbuster semi-final against France

New Zealand Under 20 Head Coach Kane Jury has named his side to face France in the semi-final of the Junior World Championship in Georgia.

New Zealand secured its place in the final four after finishing top of Pool B with three wins from three matches, defeating Japan (38-21), Scotland (36-26) and Italy (45-15). France also progressed unbeaten through pool play, setting up a blockbuster semi-final between two of the tournament heavyweights.

Five changes as Jury backs continuity for knockout clash

There are five changes to the side that defeated Italy 45-15 in the final pool match.

The starting forward pack remains unchanged following another strong performance against Italy, where New Zealand scored seven tries to complete an unbeaten pool campaign.

David Lewai moves to the left wing, with Haki Wiseman returning from concussion to start in the mid-field alongside Siale Pahulu.

Two changes have been made to the bench, with Jackson Hughan returning as the reserve halfback and Logan Williams providing outside back cover.

Kane Jury: 'Everything lifts another level in a semi-final'

We've

been

pleased

with

the

way

the

group

has

grown

throughout

the

pool

stages,

but

we

know

everything

lifts

another

level

in

a

semi-final.

France

are

an

outstanding

side

and

have

shown

throughout

the

tournament

why

they're

one

of

the

favourites.

They'll

challenge

us

right

across

the

park.

We've

built

good

momentum

over

the

last

three

matches,

but

we'll

need

to

be

accurate,

disciplined

and

take

our

opportunities.

The

players

are

excited

for

the

challenge

and

the

chance

to

earn

a

place

in

the

final.
New Zealand Under 20 Head Coach, Kane Jury