Three Landers players named to NZ U20
Three players from the Highlanders development ranks have been named in the New Zealand under-20 game day squad for their opening match against Italy in South Africa on Monday morning New Zealand time.
Highlanders and Otago halfback Dylan Pledger has been selected to start in the No 9 jersey, while midfielder Tayne Harvey and Southland hooker Shaun Kempton will start from the bench.
Promising lock Josh Tengblad is in the squad but has not been selected for the opening game of New Zealand's campaign to claim the world title for the first time since 2017.
The powerful loose forward trio of Finn McLeod, Caleb Woodley, and Mosese Bason remains together following their performances in May, when New Zealand triumphed over South Africa to win the Under-20 Rugby Championship.
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.
World Rugby U20 Champs
Monday, 6:30am NZT
New Zealand under-20s: Rico Simpson, Frank Vaenuku, Cooper Roberts, Jack Wiseman, Stanley Solomon, Will Cole, Dylan Pledger, Mosese Bason, Caleb Woodley, Finn McLeod, Jayden Sa, Xavier Treacy, Logan Wallace, Manumaua Letiu (captain), Sika Pole.
Reserves: Shaun Kempton, Dane Johnston, Robson Faleafa, Randall Baker, Micah Fale, Jai Tamati, Tayne Harvey, Harlyn Saunoa.
— APL
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