Five Dragons RFC Academy players have been named in the Wales men’s Under-19 match day squad to face France Under-19 at St Helen’s on Saturday (kick-off 7.30pm).
Fly half Will Ford, full back Sam Morgan and wing Ryley Fussell all start while Tiaan Hall and Jake Shepherd are named among the replacements.
The clash with France will provide an important opportunity for a number of young players to pull on the red jersey, represent their country and make a statement as they look to take the next step in their international careers.
Wales U20 head coach Richard Whiffin, said: “The fixture offers a valuable platform for players to showcase their ability at international level and stake a claim for further involvement within the age-grade pathway.”
With places in Wales U20 squad for the forthcoming Six Nations firmly in players’ sights, the encounter represents an opportunity to catch the head coach’s eye and give him something to think about ahead of his selection decisions.
There is a clear precedent for players making the most of these opportunities. Last year, Sam Morgan used the U19 fixtures to make his mark, impressing with his performances before going on to feature prominently in Wales’s Junior World Championship campaign.
“His progression is an example of how these games can provide a springboard for young players eager to establish themselves on the international stage,” said Whiffin.
With international experience, valuable exposure, and potential Six Nations selection all on offer, the meeting with France represents another important step in the development of Wales’ next generation.
Wales U19 v France U19, Saturday 14 November, St Helen’s 7.30pm
15 Sam Morgan (Dragons RFC)
14 Calen Edwards (Cardiff Rugby)
13 Jayden Brown (Scarlets)
12 Ethan Bolche (Ospreys)
11 Ryley Fussell (Dragons RFC)
10 Will Ford (Dragons RFC)
9 Alfie Luger (Scarlets)
1 Hudson Nevin (Scarlets)
2 McKenzie Scales (Ospreys)
3 Ollie Tucker (Scarlets)
4 Will Kellett (RGC)
5 Cody Rae David (Ospreys)
6 Will Watkin (Cardiff Rugby)
7 Alfie Prygodzicz (Cardiff Rugby – Capt)
8 Harvey Thomas (Scarlets)
Replacements
16 Tiaan Hall (Dragons RFC)
17 Vinnay Cleak (Cardiff Rugby)
18 Jac Clease (Cardiff Rugby)
19 Will Carrol (Ospreys)
20 Elis Cox (Ospreys)
21 Jake Shepherd (Dragons)
24 George Thomas (Cardiff Rugby)
25 Ben Coomer (Cardiff Rugby)
26 Owen Lewis (Cardiff Rugby)
27 Steff Thomas (Scarlets)
28 Madoc Evans (Scarlets)
Tickets are just £5 for adults, free for U16s!
The fixture offers a valuable platform for players to showcase their ability at international level and stake a claim for further involvement within the age-grade pathway...
