Aus U20s ring changes for Japan
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Australian Under-20 head coach Adrian Thomson has backed the depth of his squad for Tuesday's match against Japan, making 13 changes to the starting line-up that beat Samoa 33-10.
In a proud moment for the young flyhalf, Queenslander James Dalgleish has been named captain of the side, with Andrew Kellaway starting from the bench.
The young Australians will look to continue their momentum and good from against an impressive Japanese outfit, as they prepare for their biggest test against New Zealand this Saturday.
"To be successful at any tournament you need to approach things with a squad mentality, especially with the combative nature of these matches", said Thomson.
"The score line against New Zealand and Japan didn’t reflect the intensity of the match, we expect the Japanese will be very keen to come out firing with a significantly better performance.
"They are team who like to move the ball quickly so this match is going to be a good test of our fitness and defence."
In other news, Australian Sevens squad member Brad Wilkin has unfortunately suffered a hamstring injury that will prevent his further participation in the tournament, with New South Welshman, Jack McCalman being called into the side.
Wilkin will remain with the squad completing his rehabilitation with the Australian U20 medical team.
Team
Australia: 15 Tyson DavisReserves, 14 Christian Yassmin, 13 Alex Newsome, 12 Jack Redden, 11 Joey Fittoch, 10 James Dalgleish (captain), 9 Harry Nucifora, 8 Hayden Anderson, 7 Olly Kamp, 6 Sam Croke, 5 Lukhan Lealaialoto-tui, 4 Harrison Williams, 3 Fereti Saaga, 2 Folau Faainga, 1 Aaron Pleash.
Reserves: 16 Connal McInerney, 17 Cameron Orr, 18 Tyrell Lomax, 19 Riley Winter, 20 Jack McCalman, 21 James Tuttle, 22 Andrew Deegan, 23 Andrew Kellaway.
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