Three Highlanders region players make U20 squad

THREE players from the Highlanders region have been named in the New Zealand under20 squad for the junior world championship later this month.

Southland hooker Jack Taylor, who made his Super Rugby debut for the Highlanders as an injury replacement against the Fijian Drua this season, will be joined by Highlanders under20 duo Ajay Faleafaga and Will Stodart in the 30strong squad.

But there was no room for powerful Highlanders under20 No 8 Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa or his talented teammate, fullbackcumfirst five Finn Hurley.

Hurley was called into the New Zealand under20 side for the recent twogame series against the Junior Wallabies, and impressed in those opportunities.

Coach Clark Laidlaw said he was ‘‘incredibly fortunate to have such a talented cohort of players to select from’’.

“We want to congratulate the players selected, in what will be a special day for them and their families who I’m sure will be proud of their achievements.

‘‘It’s great to have a talented young group heading off to . . . South Africa.”

Former Highlanders under20 player and Tasman halfback Noah Hotham has been named captain of the side, and Peter Lakai (Wellington) and Taha Kemara (Waikato) will act as deputies.

“Noah, Peter and Taha have showed leadership on the field and in the wider team environment — this is a great development opportunity for them,’’ Laidlaw said.

‘‘Our attention is now on the first three pool matches against Wales, France and Japan.

‘‘We know these teams will put up an intense challenge.’’

Talented fullback Payton Spencer, son of former All Black Carlos Spencer, has been ruled out with injury.

Fiti Sa (Taranaki), Maliu Niuafe (Auckland), Cody Nordstrom (Waikato) and Toby Bell (Canterbury) are also on the injury list.