England Set to Defend U20 Rugby World Cup Crown with Ambition and Fresh Talent

Reigning champions England arrive in Italy determined to defend their World Rugby U20 Championship title with a blend of youthful energy and seasoned leadership. One year on from their triumph in South Africa, a new-look England U20 side prepares to take on the world once again, led by head coach Mark Mapletoft and assistant Andy Titterrell. A 30-man squad has been named, featuring seven uncapped players who impressed in recent warm-up wins against Wales (47–14) and Georgia (43–14).

England U20 vs Ireland — *England U20 were crowned world champions last year (© England Rugby)*

England kick off their campaign on Saturday 29 June in Verona, where they face Scotland in what promises to be a hard-fought opening encounter. Co-captains Ben Redshaw (Newcastle Falcons, newly signed by Gloucester) and Tom Burrow (Sale Sharks) will lead the team. Redshaw, a dynamic full-back, and Burrow, a towering lock who captained during the 2025 U20 Six Nations, represent the spirit of unity and high standards fostered by the current setup.

“There’s been a real shift in our mindset,” said Mapletoft. “This group expects the very best from themselves and each other. We’re focused on making unforgettable memories with a special cohort of young men.”

A Core of Champions, Reinforced by Promising Newcomers

England’s squad is built around a spine of eight returning world champions: Redshaw, Bellamy, Bracken, Coen, James, Kpoku, Sela and Sodeke; all of whom played crucial roles in last year’s victorious campaign in Cape Town. Their experience will be invaluable in helping new faces settle in and keeping standards sky-high.

Among the most influential returnees are Saracens’ powerhouse wing Olamide Sodeke and Exeter’s dynamic back-row Kane James, both of whom already boast 14 caps. Lock Junior Kpoku, who continues to develop impressively at Racing 92, brings maturity and a commanding physical presence to the engine room.

Yet this tournament also signals the emergence of fresh talent. Seven players in the squad are still awaiting their first U20 cap but have shown their worth in recent non-capped fixtures. These include Leicester’s Sam Williams, Sale pair Seb Kelly and Alfie Longstaff, Harlequins’ Ollie Streeter, Saracens duo Noah Caluori and Asa Stewart-Harris, and Gloucester’s Will Knight.

“They’ve proven they can match the intensity and adapt quickly,” said assistant coach Andy Titterrell. “It’s a tight-knit group and these lads have fitted in seamlessly. We’re excited to see what they can bring on the biggest stage.”

In the backline, England look equally well-stocked. Harlequins’ Josh Bellamy : top try scorer from this year’s U20 Six Nations will be a vital asset, while Jack Bracken (Saracens), son of former England scrum-half Kyran, adds pedigree and sharp game awareness. At half-back, Northampton’s Archie McParland continues to grow in stature, and explosive Exeter back Ben Coen remains a constant threat.

Elsewhere, Tyler Offiah (Bath), son of rugby league legend Martin Offiah, earned his first cap in February against Ireland and adds flair and pace out wide.