It's semi-finals Sunday at the World Rugby U20 Championship and following last Tuesday’s weather-affected schedule, the hope will be that all six matches will be played to an 80-minute conclusion unlike on match day three when there were just four and a half matches completed due to the heavy rain making pitches unplayable.
It’s the sort of programme that should have rugby fans having two gadgets on the go at the same time so that none of the action is missed as it happens. RugbyPass TV will be streaming all games live and for free in countries that don't have an exclusive local broadcaster deal.
Three matches are scheduled for Stellenbosch: Ireland vs Georgia (kick-off 2pm local), France vs New Zealand (4:30pm) and South Africa vs Argentina (7pm). Over in Athlone, Wales vs Spain is the opening match (2pm) followed by England vs Fiji (4:30pm) and Australia vs Italy (7pm).
A veteran of last year’s age-grade tournament where the Aussies placed fifth, the straight-shooting No10 has returned to South Africa as a very different proposition.
Four players were ruled out through injury following the 35-11 win and will miss the remainder of the tournament. Meanwhile, lock Harvey Cordukes, who was red-carded during the first half, has been suspended for two matches.
Saturday’s opening round of the 2024 World Rugby U20 Championship produced a feast of age-grade entertainment. There were some excellent team performances and a clatter of individuals stood out.
Australia felt hard done by in their round two loss to Ireland in Paarl because in the aftermath of their 10-30 defeat, Irish back-rower James McNabney was cited and banned for foul play that happened in the 35th minute that was missed by the officials in real time.
Australia U20s coach Nathan Grey has named a strong side for the team’s opener at the World Rugby U20 Championship on Sunday morning (AEST).
Six new names feature in the Australia U20 squad for the World Rugby U20 Championship beginning at the end of this month in South Africa.
Junior Wallabies winger Angus Staniforth has never stood in front of a haka, but that will change on Sunday evening.