Qantas Australian Sevens forward Brad Wilkin will make his return from injury for the Australian U20s team for its second World Rugby U20 Championship clash with Italy on Sunday morning (4.30am AEST)
Wilkin is one of three changes to the starting fifteen that defeated Samoa 34-22, with Queensland speedster Conrad Quick moved from the injury list to the wing and Folau Faingaa getting a start at hooker.
Australian U20s Head Coach, Adrian Thompson, said: “Injecting Brad back into the starting side will give us some extra experience and versatility at the set piece and in defence.
“As the tournament’s host we expect Italy to be a very challenging proposition. They had some strong passages of play against South Africa and will be hungry for their first victory.
“We’ve recognised some areas for improvement after our clash against Samoa and we are aware that we need to come up with a better 80-minute performance on Sunday.”
The clash at Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi, Parma kicks off at 4.30am Sunday 7 June and will be broadcast in Australia LIVE on FOX SPORTS 3.
Australia U20s to play Italy:
1.Cameron Orr
2.Folau Faingaa
3.Matt Sandell
4.Ned Hanigan
5.Lukhan Lealaiauloto-tui
6.Brad Wilkin
7.Michael Gunn
8.Adam Korczyk
9.James Tuttle
10.Andrew Deegan
11.Andrew Kellaway (C)
12.Duncan Paia’aua
13.Sione Tuipolotu
14.Conrad Quick
15.Jonah Placid
Reserves
16.Fereti Saaga
17.Connal McInerney
18.Tyrel Lomax
19.Riley Winter
20.Sam Croke
21.Harry Nucifora
22.James Dalgleish
23.Tyson Davis
