The Wales coaching team, headed up by Geraint Lewis and Chris Horsman, will be assisted by fellow former Welsh internationals Gethin Jenkins and Richie Rees in their preparations for the match.
The U19 age group has been re-introduced into Wales’ pathway for the first time in over a decade in an attempt to give more players an opportunity of being involved in an international playing environment.
“We have changed the age bracket within our international pathway to move teams in line with the way international rugby eligibility sees age groups and the U19s will only be those boys born in the year 2000.”
It is envisaged that by creating an U19 side, players will still have the opportunity to be actively involved in the pathway system. Previously, some players may have had little or no involvement in the programme after completing their U18 duties due to the competitive nature of selection at U20 level.
Now that hurdle has been addressed, Lewis is hoping those involved in the game against England at Bridgend will provide the U20 coaches some selection headaches with the summer’s Junior World Championship in mind.
“Certainly it is an opportunity for the boys involved in the U19s to put their stamp on things and hopefully put themselves forward for selection for the U20s World Cup out in Argentina. The game against England is going to be a real test and the game certainly gives the boys something to aspire to,” added Lewis.
Wales U19s v England U19s
Sunday 7 April, K0 2pm
Tickets can only be bought on the gate: £5 adults, £1 U16s.
