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The World Rugby U20 Championship is the premier international competition for up-and-coming rugby players. Since its launch, the tournament has become an essential stepping stone for young talent, helping players transition from youth to professional U20 rugby at the highest level.
History
The World Rugby Under 20 Championship has been the top international competition for young rugby players since its launch in 2008. Run by World Rugby, it replaced the old under-19 and under-21 tournaments, bringing them together into one streamlined event. Over the years, it’s become a breeding ground for future rugby stars, with many players going on to represent their senior national teams.
The competition has changed a bit over time, with teams refining their development pathways and adapting to higher levels of competition. But the core goal has stayed the same: to give young players a taste of top-level rugby and prepare them for the step up to professional and international rugby.
U20 Rugby in New Zealand
In New Zealand, the under-20 team—better known as the Baby Blacks—has built a strong reputation as one of the best sides in the tournament. Since their formation in 2008, they’ve dominated the U20 rugby scene, winning multiple World Rugby U20 Championship titles and setting the standard for excellence.
The pathway to the Baby Blacks often starts in school rugby, especially in First XV competitions, before players move into provincial teams and Super Rugby academies. Many of New Zealand’s biggest rugby names have come through this system, proving just how important the U20s are in shaping future All Blacks.
Memorable U20 Rugby Championships
The U20 Championship has delivered some incredible moments over the years. Some teams have stamped their authority on the tournament, while others have pulled off shock wins that shook up the competition.
One standout final came in 2011, when New Zealand beat England 33–22 to win their fourth straight title. That squad included future stars like Beauden Barrett, who went on to become a world-class first five-eighth. In 2018, France won their first-ever U20 rugby title in front of a passionate home crowd, proving they were becoming a rugby powerhouse.
U20 Notable Players
The tournament has helped launch the careers of some of the biggest names in rugby. New Zealand’s Sam Whitelockmade his mark at the U20 level before becoming one of the most capped All Blacks of all time. England’s Maro Itojealso shone in the U20 Championship before going on to become a key player for the England senior team and the British & Irish Lions.
Other big names include Handré Pollard, who led South Africa to the 2012 U20 rugby title and later helped the Springboks win the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Ireland’s James Ryan also came through the U20 rugby system and quickly became a key leader for Leinster and Ireland. These players show just how important the U20 Championship is as a stepping stone to the highest level.
Matches and Upsets
There have been plenty of dramatic moments in the championship’s history. One of the biggest upsets came in 2018, when South Africa knocked New Zealand out in the semifinals, winning 40-30. It was a rare moment where the Baby Blacks didn’t make the final, showing just how competitive the tournament had become.
Another unforgettable match was the 2019 final, where France edged out Australia 24–23 in a nail-biting contest to claim back-to-back titles. England’s first-ever U20 rugby title in 2013, when they beat Wales in a shock final, was another major moment that proved no team is ever unbeatable at this level.
2019 World Rugby U20 Championship
The 2019 tournament in Argentina saw France successfully defend their title with a narrow 24–23 victory over Australia in the final. Their back-to-back wins highlighted the strength of their youth development and cemented their status as a rising force in international rugby.
South Africa claimed third place, defeating Argentina 41–16 in the bronze final. Despite the loss, Argentina’s fourth-place finish demonstrated their ability to compete with top-tier teams, reinforcing the increasing competitiveness of emerging rugby nations at the U20 rugby level.
2018 Six Nations Under-20 Championship
The 2018 Six Nations U20 Championship was won by France, marking a significant success for their youth development program. Their strong performance set the stage for their achievements later that year in the World Rugby U20 Championship.
England finished second in the tournament, while Ireland placed fifth. Despite mixed results, both teams produced players who would later make their senior international debuts. The tournament once again proved to be a key stepping stone for young players looking to transition into professional and international rugby.
2017 World Rugby U20 Championship Semifinals
The 2017 semifinals were packed with quality rugby, with New Zealand eventually going on to win the title. The Baby Blacks showed their class throughout the tournament, reinforcing their reputation as the team to beat at this level.
England, South Africa, and France also impressed, making it clear that U20 rugby was becoming more competitive than ever.
2016 Six Nations Under-20 Championship
England dominated the 2016 Six Nations U20 Championship, completing a Grand Slam with a series of commanding performances. Their success was a testament to the strength of their development system, which continues to produce world-class talent.
Ireland also had a strong campaign, finishing second and showcasing a group of players who would later shine at senior level. The Six Nations U20 rugby competition remains a key event for identifying and developing the next generation of rugby stars.
2015 World Rugby U20 Championship Final
The 2015 final saw New Zealand deliver a clinical performance against England to claim yet another championship. The Baby Blacks were dominant throughout the tournament, with future stars like Akira Ioane and Damian McKenzieplaying key roles in their success.
That tournament reinforced New Zealand’s status as a powerhouse in youth rugby and highlighted the depth of talent coming through the ranks.
FAQs
What is the World Rugby U20 Championship?
It’s an annual international tournament for men’s under-20 rugby teams, run by World Rugby. The competition gives young players a chance to compete at the highest level before making the jump to senior rugby.
How are teams selected for the U20 Championship?
Teams qualify based on their performances in regional tournaments and previous editions of the championship. The best teams from around the world earn their place, ensuring a high standard of competition.
What is the World Rugby U20 Trophy?
It’s the second-tier U20 rugby competition, running alongside the main championship. The tournament gives developing rugby nations a chance to compete internationally and provides a pathway for emerging talent.