**Wales U20s Name Formidable Squad for Challenging Summer World Championship**
Wales’ under-20 rugby team has revealed what is widely considered their most promising squad in years, as they prepare for a stern test at this summer’s World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy. Steered by head coach Richard Whiffin, the team has been drawn in a competitive group featuring Argentina, France, and Spain—certainly no easy task, but staff and fans alike sense that this could be a breakthrough year for Welsh youth rugby.
Having shown considerable progression during their recent Six Nations campaign, the Welsh youngsters pulled off memorable wins against Italy, Ireland, and reigning champions England. This upturn in form, combined with the return of a handful of talented players who missed out earlier in the season, offers a glimmer of hope that Wales might make a significant impact on the global stage.
Harry Beddall, an exceptional openside flanker, continues to lead as captain, having impressed with his leadership and performance throughout the Six Nations. Further boosting the squad’s strength is the comeback of Nick Thomas, the Dragons’ formidable second-row, who was sidelined by injury during the previous campaign. His return adds both experience and grit to a forward pack that already looks robust.
A notable feature of this year’s squad is its international flavour. Ten players currently ply their trade outside Wales, reflecting the growing reputation of Welsh talent across rugby’s wider landscape. Among them is Luke Evans, an Exeter Chiefs lock who recently committed to representing Wales after previously being involved in England’s pathway. Players such as Cardiff’s Tom Bowen, Bristol’s Aidan Boshoff, and prop Sam Scott are also regarded as ones to watch, each bringing their unique flair to the side.
Preparation for the championship included a mixed bag of warm-up results—an eye-opening loss to England at Pontypool Park followed by a commanding display against Italy at the Arms Park. Coach Whiffin expressed satisfaction with the squad’s balance, combining returning experience with notable newcomers. “This is a very balanced squad, a mix of last year’s quality returnees and fresh faces who made an impact during the Six Nations,” Whiffin remarked. He emphasised the pack’s potential to dominate set-pieces as well as praising the energy and skill of the outside backs.
Utilising more than 40 players across these warm-up matches, Whiffin admitted the coaching team benefited from an extended look at their options. “Facing England, especially after a tough week’s training, gave us valuable insights. When we held them at 14-14 after an hour, it showed our capability. Following this, we produced a polished performance against Italy, and it was vital to see so many players in action ahead of the final selection,” said Whiffin.
While optimism is running high, the team has suffered some setbacks. Talented scrum-half Logan Franklin and speedy wing Harry Rees-Weldon have been ruled out due to injury. Neath’s Ellis Lewis, the only uncapped player to make the cut, provides an intriguing wildcard option in the squad.
Reflecting on the opportunity ahead, Whiffin noted the newfound self-belief among his players. “This group know they can compete with the tournament’s best. Our goal is clear: aim for the top semi-final bracket and see where that takes us. The margins were fine last year, but our improvement in closing out tough matches, especially in the Six Nations, bodes well for our prospects in Italy.”
The Welsh U20s will kick off their campaign by facing Argentina before taking on France and Spain. With the coaching staff keen to build on last year’s near-miss and the Six Nations’ progress, expectation is building around what this crop of players may achieve on the world stage.
Here is the full 30-player Wales U20 squad: Ioan Emanuel (Bath), Louie Trevett (Bristol Bears), Harry Thomas (Scarlets), Saul Hurley (Aberavon), Evan Wood (Pontypool), Sam Scott (Bristol Bears), Owain James (Dragons), Jac Pritchard (Scarlets), Luke Evans (Exeter Chiefs), Kenzie Jenkins (Bristol Bears), Nick Thomas (Dragons), Tom Cottle (Cardiff), Dan Gemine (Ospreys), Deian Gwynne (Gloucester), Harry Beddall (Dragons, captain), Caio James (Gloucester), Evan Minto (Dragons), Sion Davies (Cardiff), Ellis Lewis (Neath), Harri Wilde (Cardiff), Harri Ford (Dragons), Steffan Emanuel (Cardiff), Elis Price (Scarlets), Elijah Evans (Cardiff), Osian Roberts (Sale Sharks), Osian Darwin-Lewis (Cardiff), Aidan Boshoff (Bristol Bears), Lewis Edwards (Ospreys), Jack Woods (Bath), Tom Bowen (Cardiff).
With a blend of experience, youthful exuberance, and a sense of unfinished business, the Welsh U20s embark on their Italian adventure hoping to make headlines for all the right reasons this summer.