Lilley and Newman named in England Junior World Championship squad

Exeter Chiefs’ duo Nick Lilley and George Newman have been named in England U20 Men’s head coach Andy Titterrell’s 30-player squad for the 2026 World Rugby Junior World Championship in Georgia.

For scrum-half Newman, this will mark his first World Championship campaign while centre Lilley prepares to compete in his second.

The 2024 champions England will be based in the Georgian capital for the duration of the pool stages, with their first game against Ireland on June 27 (12:30 BST kick-off) at Avchala Stadium. All England fixtures will be broadcast live on RugbyPass TV in the UK.

Titterrell said: “We’re incredibly proud to name this final squad for the Junior World Championship in Georgia. Selection has been driven by real competitiveness for places, and that’s been evident in the relentlessness the players have shown every day in their preparation. Earning a spot in this group is a credit to the ownership they’ve taken of their development and the way they’ve supported one another throughout the pathway.

“The next month is a continuation of the journey we’ve been on together. We’ve worked hard to build genuine connections between players and staff, creating an environment where enjoyment and high performance sit side by side. That cohesion will be crucial as we head into a demanding, but exciting tournament.

“We know that if we’re to achieve top honours, we must earn that right. That comes through committed, courageous choices on and off the field and a collective desire to keep getting better. This squad understands what it means to represent England, and they’re ready to embrace the challenge ahead with real purpose and belief.”

The full squad can be found here.