In total, 335 players have made the step up globally.Ĭommenting on the announcement, World Rugby Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “The U20 Championship in England next year will be another excellent opportunity for the future stars of world rugby to showcase their skills on the world stage, following what’s shaping up to be a record-breaking Rugby World Cup. Since 2008, 24 senior England players have progressed through the Under 20 programme, including the likes of Owen Farrell and George Ford. The tournament has offered a pathway for future stars of the game to progress to the highest international test stage. Wales, Japan, Argentina, Italy, South Africa, France and New Zealand have all played host.Įngland are the current holders and following their semi-final win over South Africa last night are going for an unprecedented treble this weekend when they pay New Zealand in the final. Previously known as the Junior World Championship, the tournament was introduced in 2008. The annual event, which is currently taking place in Italy, is contested by 12 national teams at under-20 level, showcasing future stars of rugby union. Hosted by the RFU, the tournament will take place at AJ Bell Stadium, home of Sale Sharks, and Manchester City’s Academy Stadium, offering back-to-back international rugby in June next year. MANCHESTER has been named as the host venue for the World Rugby Under-20 Championships in 2016.