Melbourne Rebels flank, Sean McMahon has been selected to lead the Australian Under 20’s at the Junior World Championships in Auckland next month.
The Australian squad will include seven players with Super Rugby experience.
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Included in the squad are the likes of Allan Alaalatoa and Tom Staniforth from the Brumbies; Lalakai Foketi and Sean McMahon from the Rebels; David Horwitz of the Waratahs; Luke Burton of the Western Force and Jonah Placid of the Reds.
The squad was named after a 13-day training camp on the Gold Coast, which included two matches against the Samoan Under 20’s.
Australia was successful in both of these clashes recording two strong wins (36-5 and 60-5).
Australian Under 20s Head Coach Adrian Thompson conceded that the final selection decision was difficult.
“We had a very strong squad this year that worked really hard to ensure the best outcome for themselves and for the team,” Thompson said.
“I am very happy with the squad we have selected and I am confident this side will be a real force in Auckland as we look to win the Championship.”
If the Under 20’s are successful it would be the first time Australia would have won the tournament.
McMahon has been rewarded with the captaincy of the squad following recent strong performances with the Australian Sevens side and the Melbourne Rebels.
Lalakai Foketi and Tom Staniforth have been named as vice captains.
“Sean is an excellent Rugby player and an inspiring leader”, Thompson said.
“He encompasses the values of Australian Rugby and will lead our side on and off the field with great distinction.
“He has really developed his breakdown and defensive skills at the Rebels”.
Australia Under 20’s Squad for Junior World Championship:
Allan Alaalatoa, Luke Burton Sam Croke, Jack Dempsey, Lolo Fakaosilea, Lalakai Foketi, Ross Haylett-Petty, David Horwitz, Alifeleti Kaitu’u, Andrew Kellaway, Brad Lacey, Jake McIntyre, Sean McMahon (c), Rory O’Connor, Cameron Orr, Jack Payne, Rowan Perry, Matthew Philip, Jonah Placid, Joseph Powell, Angus Pulver, Tom Robertson, Andrew Robinson, Harry Scoble, Tom Staniforth, Jim Stewart, Jonny Vaux, Tevita Vea.