Chamberlain and English set for U20 Six Nations openers

Friday, February 1st 2019

Academy duo, Nathan Chamberlain and Nick English kick off their respective U20 Six Nations campaign this weekend, after both being included in matchday squads.

Chamberlain is named among the Scotland U20 replacements for their game against Italy U20 at Netherdale tonight (Friday, February 1st), while English is included in the Wales U20 squad for their Six Nations opener against France at Stade de la Rabine in Vannes on Sunday, February 3rd.

Wales U20 head coach, Gareth Williams, said: "We're very excited about our first competitive game of the season, and it doesn't get much bigger than against the current world champions," said Williams.

"The occasion will be superb and it will be a true test for us a group. We have ambitions to emulate them in the coming years, so it will be a good start.

"We're delighted with how we've trained, and that has been a credit to players who have missed out on selection. Their intensity in training has pushed the starting team brilliantly this week.

"We're also very grateful to Cardiff RFC for helping us. Steve Law and his team were brilliant in an opposed training session we had at Cardiff Arms Park. With the form they are in, and quality in their squad, it was a good 45-minute challenge for our boys' processes and approach."

Scotland U20 head coach, Carl Hogg, said: “We’ve chosen a strong side which contains a good blend of pace and power, whilst there are number of players who will be looking to impress on their first appearance for Scotland U20.

“The boys have trained really well in the run up to the match and I’ve been impressed with their mind-set and positivity throughout training camp.

“Italy are a tough, combative side and we’re well aware of the passion that they bring to the fold. The boys know how tough the game will be and we’ll have to match their intensity from the get-go on Friday night.”