You’d be forgiven for thinking there is no rugby for the next few weeks while the Wallabies make preparations for their upcoming Grand Slam tour – but if so, no one has told the pathways programs or the Wallaroos. As the women in gold continue their WXV campaign in South Africa, the Super Rugby U16s and U19s competitions have kicked off in Australia – while the Australia U18s side has named their first side for the first in a two match tour of New Zealand – and one name is on everyone’s mind. Zach Fittler, the son of Rugby League legend Brad – and fresh off signing a new contract with the Waratahs – is now set for his first experience in gold, being named on the bench for the Australia U18s clash with the New Zealand Barbarians in Hamilton.
Fittler’s inclusion headlines a side dominated by New South Wales and Queensland products, with the young rampaging centre set to induce some significant physicality in the back half of the clash. However, of note to also watch includes Beasties’ product Edwin Langi in the front row, having come off an incredible season – with a 1sts Colts Premiership under his belt as well as earning a debut in the First Grade Shute Shield. Loose forward Tom Robinson has been named captain of the side, having coming off a strong season at University of Queensland, and he’ll be joined by Easts’ Frankie Goldsbrough as Vice Captain, headlining a strong backline for their clash.
The U18s will play on October 2nd, kick off 10:45am AEST..