NSWJRU Invitational XV a chance for rugby teens to prove Gen Blue selectors wrong

A rugby squad for teens who missed major squads and teams is to be created this month - and it is expected to cause waves in the game.

They will be players with a big point to prove. Young guns who just missed out of major selections and teens coming back from injury or illness.

And that’s what makes the new NSWRU Invitational XV to be named later this month potentially so dangerous.

The sport has introduced yet another pathway for the teenage guns of rugby with the new squad to play a match against Gen Blue II at Daceyville in September.

Players who competed at the 48th Australian School Rugby Championships at Knox are eligible to nominate. Pic: John Appleyard

NSW Junior Rugby’s Ben Gregory said the team will comprise players with plenty to prove on the pitch after failing to crack the U18 Gen Blue and Australian Schools rugby squads.

“It will be made up of boys who played really well at carnivals and school games and for whatever reason didn’t make the cut,’’ Gregory said.

“This is their chance to prove to the Gen Blue selectors they made a mistake. This is a real opportunity for 23 kids.

“These will be super hot kids who were on the radar. This is their second chance to say ‘don’t forget about me’.

“One advantage this team will have is that they will potentially want it more than the other guys who were selected six weeks ago. These other kids are saying ‘don’t get too comfortable, I want your spot’.’’

Players from both the City and Country are eligible.

Since posting news of the team to be chosen later this month, Gregory said he has been overwhelmed with interest from people reaching out for more detail and how to nominate players.

The match will be played on he match will be played at 11:45am at David Philips field at Daceyville on September 21, the same day the NSW Waratahs Academy Gen Blue I side will plays the Melbourne Rebels Academy.

Action at the recent City v Country championships.

“Country kids are also eligible and this is about giving everyone more games.” Gregory said.

“Originally there wasn’t a game for the Gen Blue II team on that day and what we have done here is found a game of substance.”

Gregory will manage the side with NSW Barbarians coach Gary Tunks NSW taking charge.

Phil Scarr from Knox College is the backs coach, and Barry Faamausuli From Sydney Juniors rugby union is the forwards coach.

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Originally published as NSWJRU Invitational XV a chance for rugby teens to prove Gen Blue selectors wrong