The New Zealand Men’s Under 20 rugby team is ready to kick off their World Rugby U20 Championship campaign against host nation Italy on June 29, 2025, in Calvisano. The New Zealand U20 rugby 2025 squad, announced by coach Jono Gibbes, blends emerging talent with proven performers from their Rugby Championship U20 triumph in May. This article dives into the squad, key players, match schedule, and how fans worldwide can watch live. For more on New Zealand’s rising stars, check our youth talent feature.
New Zealand U20 Squad: Power and Promise
Coach Jono Gibbes has named a 23-player squad for the Italy match, featuring a formidable loose forward trio of Finn McLeod, Caleb Woodley, and captain Mosese Bason, who led New Zealand to the U20 Rugby Championship title in South Africa. The backline includes dynamic fullback Isaac Hutchinson and scrum-half Dylan Pledger, whose 85% pass accuracy shone in May. Three Highlanders development players—McLeod, Woodley, and Bason—bring cohesion, while debutants like prop William Martin add fresh energy. “We’re excited to test ourselves against Italy’s physicality,” Gibbes said. Explore similar talent in our rising stars feature.
World Rugby U20 Championship Context
The 2025 World Rugby U20 Championship, held in Northern Italy (Calvisano, Rovigo, Verona, Viadana), runs from June 29 to July 19. New Zealand, in Pool C with Italy, Ireland, and Georgia, aims to reclaim the title last won in 2017. Their recent U20 Rugby Championship win, including a tense draw with South Africa, sets them up for success. “This is about building on our momentum,” Gibbes added. For tactical insights, see our breakdown tactics.
New Zealand U20 2025 Schedule: Pool Matches
New Zealand’s pool stage campaign in the World Rugby U20 Championship is packed with challenges. Below are their confirmed fixtures:
| Date | Opponent | Time (NZST/CEST) | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 29, 2025 | Italy | 8:00 AM NZST / 8:00 PM CEST | Stadio San Michele, Calvisano |
| July 4, 2025 | Ireland | 8:00 AM NZST / 8:00 PM CEST | Stadio Mario Battaglini, Rovigo |
| July 9, 2025 | Georgia | 8:00 AM NZST / 8:00 PM CEST | Stadio San Michele, Calvisano |
Tickets for matches are available via world.rugby (starting at €10). For the full tournament schedule, visit our New Zealand rugby schedule.
Key Players to Watch
Captain Mosese Bason, a loose forward with a 90% tackle completion rate, leads the pack with relentless energy. Isaac Hutchinson’s speed (three tries in the U20 Rugby Championship) electrifies the backline, while Dylan Pledger’s quick distribution sets the tempo. Prop William Martin, a debutant, adds scrum stability with an 88% retention rate. Their synergy, detailed in our backline analysis, will challenge Italy’s physical game. For more on set-piece play, see our scrum tactics.
Italy Challenge and Tournament Outlook
Italy, led by fullback Jacopo Trullo (three tries in a 73-6 win over Namibia), will test New Zealand’s defense in Calvisano. The hosts’ passionate home crowd and physical forwards demand a sharp start. New Zealand’s pool also includes Ireland, a consistent U20 performer, and Georgia, known for set-piece strength. A strong pool stage is crucial for semi-final qualification on July 14. For similar previews, check our All Blacks vs France preview.
How to Watch New Zealand U20 Rugby 2025 Live Globally
Catch every tackle and try with these streaming options:
- JokerHDPass: Stream in HD on JokerHDPass, perfect for geo-restricted regions, supporting smart TVs and mobiles.
- RugbyPass TV: Free streaming in select regions at RugbyPass TV. Check eligibility.
- NZR+: Free in select countries at NZR+. Verify regional access.
- Stan Sport: Australian fans can stream on Stan Sport (A$15/month + base plan).
- FloRugby: USA viewers can watch on FloRugby ($29.99/month).
Use a VPN like NordVPN for geo-restricted streams. A 5 Mbps connection ensures HD quality. For streaming tips, visit our New Zealand rugby streaming guide.
Why This Campaign Matters
The New Zealand U20 team, fresh off their Rugby Championship U20 title, aims to end an eight-year World Championship drought. Players like Bason and Hutchinson are future All Blacks in the making, carrying the legacy of icons like Richie McCaw—read more in our leadership analysis. Follow ABS Rugby for match updates and player spotlights!
Who’s your New Zealand U20 star for 2025? Drop your picks in the comments and join the conversation on social media with #NZU20Rugby2025!