The IRFU has named a 30-player squad, sponsored by PwC, for the 2026 World Rugby Junior World Championship, which gets underway later this month in Georgia.
Ireland have been drawn in Pool C alongside England, Argentina and the USA, with all three pool matches to be played at the Avchala Stadium in Tbilisi.
Sami Bishti, who captained Ireland during the U20 Men’s Six Nations, will once again lead the side into the tournament.
Ireland will open their campaign against England on Saturday, June 27, with kick-off at 3.30 pm local time and 12.30 pm Irish time.
They will then face Argentina on Thursday, July 2, also at 12.30 pm Irish time, before completing the pool stage against the USA on Tuesday, July 7, with that game kicking off at 10 am Irish time.
All of Ireland’s matches will be shown live on Premier Sports and RugbyPass TV.
“We’re delighted to announce today our 30-player squad for the upcoming World Rugby Junior World Championship,” said Andrew Browne, Ireland Men’s U20 Head Coach.
“Building on from our Six Nations campaign, we have worked hard over a number of preparation camps and recent uncapped matches against Scotland and a Munster Development side.
“The World Rugby Junior World Championship is a fantastic challenge and an opportunity to test ourselves against the best teams in the world. We are aware of the challenges ahead, coming up against some quality sides in our Pool, but the players are excited for what lies ahead and are relishing the platform to grow and develop our performance levels in green.
“We’re looking forward to getting over to our base in Tbilisi and representing Ireland with pride on the world stage.”
The tournament will provide another important staging post for the next generation of Irish rugby talent, with the PwC-backed U20 programme continuing to act as a key development pathway into the professional game.
“We are proud to continue our support of the Ireland U20 Men’s team as they build on the momentum of an outstanding Six Nations campaign and embark on an exciting summer of international rugby,” said Enda McDonagh, PwC Managing Partner.
“At PwC, we are committed to fostering an environment where our people can realise their full potential and where achievement is recognised and celebrated. We understand the dedication, resilience and ambition required to progress to the next level. PwC is proud to support Ireland’s next generation.”
Ireland will travel to Georgia looking to build on the work done through the Six Nations and recent preparation fixtures, with the opening game against England likely to set the tone for a highly competitive pool.
The Junior World Championship has long been one of the most important showcases for emerging rugby talent, and Ireland’s latest crop will have the opportunity to test themselves against three contrasting opponents across an intense ten-day pool stage in Tbilisi.
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Image Credit: Irish Rugby and PwC
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