France vs New Zealand: Les Bleuets will be a big test, says Baby Blacks coach

By Sam Jackson

Semi-final preview: France v New Zealand

Monday July 13. Kick-off 3pm

New Zealand have kept faith with the forward pack that powered them through the pool stages as head coach Kane Jury made five changes to his side for Monday’s World Rugby U20 Championship semi-final against France in Tbilisi.

The Baby Blacks topped Pool B with an unbeaten record, defeating Japan (38-21), Scotland (36-26) and Italy (45-15) to book a mouthwatering clash with Les Bleuets, who also progressed through the group stages with a perfect record.

Jury has resisted the temptation to alter his starting pack following another dominant display against Italy, where New Zealand crossed for seven tries.

Instead, his changes come behind the scrum as he freshens up the backline for one of the tournament’s marquee fixtures.

Changes

David Lewai switches to the left wing, while Haki Wiseman returns from concussion to partner Siale Pahulu in midfield.

There are also two changes among the replacements, with Jackson Hughan returning as the reserve scrum-half and Logan Williams providing outside-back cover.

Captain Charlie Sinton, below, again leads the side from No.8, with vice-captain Caleb Woodley alongside him in a settled loose trio that has laid the platform throughout the championship.

Up front, the front five of Henry Stuart, Josh Findlay, Ethan Webber, Max Fale and Jake Frost remains unchanged after impressing throughout the group phase.

“We’ve been pleased with the way the group has grown throughout the pool stages, but we know everything lifts another level in a semi-final,” said Jury.

“France are an outstanding side and have shown throughout the tournament why they’re one of the favourites.

“They’ll challenge us right across the park.

“We’ve built good momentum over the last three matches, but we’ll need to be accurate, disciplined and take our opportunities.

“The players are excited for the challenge and the chance to earn a place in the final.”

Ominous form

France arrive in equally ominous form after cruising through the pool stages unbeaten, underlining their credentials with an impressive victory over Australia to secure top spot.

Les Bleuets boast one of the most dangerous units in the competition, spearheaded by back row Lucas Andjisseramatchi, hooker Gabin Garault and fly-half Luka Keletaona, who seamlessly guided the backline through their undefeated Six Nations run, including a dominant 50-21 opening win against Ireland.

There is also added motivation for the French, whose only semi-final defeat in recent years came against New Zealand in last year’s championship.

Having won four of their last five semi-finals, Les Bleuets will view Monday’s encounter as the perfect opportunity for revenge.