The Wales men’s Under 19 side to face France Under 19 at St Helen’s on Saturday has been confirmed, with Cardiff Rugby back row Alfie Prygodzicz named as captain.
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.
Cllr Rob Stewart, Swansea Council Leader, said: “This is another exciting milestone in the ongoing redevelopment of St Helen’s, which demonstrates the progress being made in securing a bright future for this famous ground.
“It’s also great to see the Welsh Rugby Union showing confidence in St Helen’s as a venue for international sport.
Tickets are just £5 for adults, free for U16s!
“We’ve already seen how successfully St Helen’s has embraced its new role as the home of the Ospreys, alongside Swansea RFC and community sport, bringing new energy and excitement to the venue.
“Hosting fixtures like this reinforces our ambition to make St Helen’s a thriving home for rugby at every level, from grassroots and community participation through to the professional and international game.”
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)