The England U20s are gearing up for a crucial clash against France this Friday, February 7, in Bath, as part of the Six Nations U20 Championship. After their victory against Ireland, the young English squad is determined to maintain momentum, but they are aware that France will provide a strong challenge, much like last year when both teams faced off for the 2024 Six Nations and the World Cup titles—both of which were claimed by England. With some tactical changes to the lineup due to injuries and suspensions, coach Mark Mapletoft hopes his players will rise to the occasion and defend their title in this pivotal match, which will be played at home in Bath.
England U20: A Title Defense Facing a Tough Test Against France.
The England U20s, reigning champions of both the Six Nations and the World Rugby U20 Championship, continue their campaign with a highly anticipated match against France on Friday, February 7, in Bath. After a solid start to the tournament with a 19-3 win over Ireland, despite being reduced to 13 men in the first half, the young English side is hoping for another high-level performance for their first home match. Coach Mark Mapletoft has made a few adjustments, notably replacing the suspended Junior Kpoku with George Timmins, who will make his starting debut on Bath’s home turf. Another key change sees Lucas Friday starting at scrum-half, replacing the injured Archie McParland, who sustained an injury last week.
A Crucial Showdown Against France.
For the young England team, this match against France is a true test. Far from resting on their laurels after the win against Ireland, they know the game against the French will be much more tightly contested. Coach Mark Mapletoft emphasized the importance of staying focused and capitalizing on opportunities throughout the match. He also highlighted the atmosphere of a major stadium as a key factor in motivating his players. Returning to Bath after an eleven-month absence from home is particularly significant for the players, who will face a determined French side. The pressure is on, but the players, especially those who shone in the first match like captain Tom Burrow and Henry Pollock, are ready for the challenge.
England U20 Team to Face France.
15 Jack Kinder (Leicester Tigers, Silhillians RUFC, uncapped)
14 Jack Bracken (Saracens, Barnet Elizabethans, 5 caps)
13 Angus Hall (Saracens, Sevenoaks Rugby Club, 6 caps)
12 Nic Allison (Exeter Chiefs, Bishops Diocesan College, uncapped)
11 Charlie Griffin (Bath Rugby, Rosslyn Park, uncapped)
10 Ben Coen (Exeter Chiefs, Teignmouth RFC, 5 caps)
9 Archie McParland (Northampton Saints, Ruthin RFC, 5 caps)
1 Ralph McEachran (Sale Sharks, Guildford RFC, uncapped)
2 Kepu Tuipulotu (Bath Rugby, Cwmbran RFC, uncapped)
3 Vilikesa Sela (Bath Rugby, Royal Wootton Bassett RFC, 9 caps)
4 Olamide Sodeke (Saracens, Blackheath Rugby Club, 11 caps)
5 Tom Burrow (c) (Sale Sharks, Morley RUFC, uncapped)
6 Junior Kpoku (Racing 92, Saracens Amateurs, 11 caps)
7 Henry Pollock (Northampton Saints, Buckingham Rugby Club, 12 caps)
8 Kane James (Exeter Chiefs, St. Peter’s RFC, 9 caps)
Replacements
16 Louie Gulley (Exeter Chiefs, Crediton RFC, uncapped)
17 Oli Scola (Northampton Saints, Old Northamptonians RFC, uncapped)
18 Tye Raymont (Sale Sharks, West Park Leeds RFC, uncapped)
19 Aiden Ainsworth-Cave (Northampton Saints, Bedford Junior Blues, uncapped)
20 George Timmins (Bath Rugby, Market Harborough RUFC, 2 caps)
21 Lucas Friday (Harlequins, Bromley RFC, 6 caps)
22 Josh Bellamy (Harlequins, Rosslyn Park, 10 caps)
23 Nick Lilley (Exeter Chiefs, Ivybridge RFC, uncapped)
