England U20 Men to face Cambridge in January
Mark Mapletoft’s side will take on Cambridge Rugby as part of their preparation for the 2025 U20 Six Nations campaign.
The world champions will travel to Ellgia Fields on Saturday 11 January to face Richie Williams’ side, kicking-off at 14:00 GMT.
Cambridge, who were promoted to the second tier ahead of the 2023/24 season, currently sit 11th in the Championship after three games, having won their opening match 26-21 away at Caldy.
Cambridge Director of Rugby Williams, who has been England U20 Counties head coach, boasts a squad with six previously capped Men’s Pathway players, including Jack Bartlett, Matty Jones, Zach Nearchou, Billy Walker, Louis Grimoldby and Josh Skelcey. Williams led his U20 Counties side against Georgia U20s at the Blood and Sand’s home ground back in 2014.
England U20 Men's Head coach Mapletoft and assistant coach Andy Titterrell recently named their 50-strong Elite Player Squad (EPS), with 12 previously capped U20 players included.
The Men’s Professional Game Partnership established the expanded EPS to enable greater playing opportunities in the international arena for those in the ‘Confirmation’ phase of the pathway development system.
Tickets for the game against Cambridge are available to purchase here.
Andy Titterrell said: “We’re thankful to Richie and his team for welcoming us to Cambridge for what will be our season curtain-raiser this January. With some regional camps pencilled in this side of Christmas, this match will now present the chance for some players’ first runouts in an U20 jersey.
“Our extended EPS this year offers up playing opportunities for a greater number of players and this fixture is an exciting occasion for our squad members to stake their claim ahead of a major tournament.
“With many of our squad members set to earn valuable minutes in the Championship this season, facing Cambridge away from home will ensure a very valuable test for our boys and is an occasion the pathway staff and I eagerly anticipate.”
England U20 Men’s 2025 fixtures
Cambridge Rugby vs. England – Saturday 11 January – 14:00 GMT kick-off – Ellgia Fields
Six Nations Round 1 – Ireland vs. England – Thursday 30 January – 19:45 GMT kick-off – Venue TBC
Six Nations Round 2 – England vs. France – Friday 7 February – 20:00 GMT kick-off – Venue TBC
Six Nations Round 3 – England vs. Scotland – Friday 21 February – 19:15 GMT kick-off – Venue TBC
Six Nations Round 4 – England vs. Italy – Friday 7 March – 19:45 GMT kick-off – Venue TBC
Six Nations Round 5 – Wales vs. England – Friday 14 March – 19:30 GMT kick-off – Venue TBC
