That's good that New Zealand have agreed to warmup's, they opposed the concept last year didn't they?
According to coach Thompson, that was the case. If it happens it will be a good thing for both parties I reckon—there's nothing official at the moment.
I think the Kiwis are getting a bit nervous about their recent performances in the JWC (i.e. not finishing first). Although our results haven't been laudable in the last couple of years, some of the games we played in NZ in 2014 with our best side were strong performances and must have made us worthy protagonists for a trial for them, in their eyes.
@Lee Grant, any idea of team lists for the boys who played? Any surprise packets? Any notable omissions?
Naturally I asked for team lists but all I got was a grin. I can understand the reluctance to circulate the names of the players they are looking at, with club politics being what they are.
I recognised many of the players from their school days but as one who doesn't watch Colts rugby (because I watch either schools or Grade every week) it is not that easy put a name to a lad outside of playing for his school side, or school rep side, a year or two later - especially for a bloke like me who is closer to 80 than to 70.
Flyhalf/fullback Adrian Delore was outstanding for Combined States schools in 2013 and it was good to see him back getting a run in both positions. He should be a strong contender for the NSW team (and a decent future option for Oz Sevens in the Stannard role, just quietly).
Flyhalf Corey Tulloch looked in great touch, and I think it might have been his old Kings' scrumhalf Rory Davis serving him well, but I could be mistaken. Oz Schools' flyhalf this year, Connor O'Shea, did nothing wrong but his chance may come in 2016 because NSW will be well-served in 2015 with the more experienced Deegan, Tulloch - and Delore as backup.
Vuni Fifita, had Cam Blades cooing at scrum time when he came on but it may be a year early for him since he was at school this year. Second rower Ned Hanigan was a dynamo, but he hasn't grown a lot since his school days. He's an excellent lineout man and I think that for the 2015 U20s he should be considered a good lineout 6, who can also play lock during a game if required.
As mentioned Lukn Lealaiauloco-Tui was a promising Skelton type of an U18 player, but he is like a blank canvas. If there's any possibility of getting a better picture of him on it I would back the setup they have at the Tahs to do so.
Harry Jones (in a moon boot now), and Andrew Deegan, weren't there yesterday but are in the group. Andrew Kellaway already has a big training load with the Tahs and didn't play. He may not have much participation with U20s until the final camp of the Oz 20s if the Tahs have injuries.
Tyson Davis (HJ's mate from Barker and the Rats) had some good runs but so did many of the other wingers. Ned Yeomans who was called into the Oz Schools' side this year looked very handy on one viewing at this level, but the players who have had experience already in Colts or Grade will probably be considered first.
Matt Sandell is one of the Invited Players at Tahs training until the New Year and I didn't see him on the park either. Nor did I notice Cameron Orr - but players were coming and going.
As indicated I see NSW's main problems as lack of experienced tall timber in the second row, though they also need some line benders at no. 8, and generally in the pack, rather than just big-engined ball players.
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