Australian U20’s coach Adrian Thompson has named a strong side to play Samoa in the opening match of the Oceania Rugby Junior Championships, despite injuries to a number of the squads more experienced players.

Rebels fullback Jonah Placid has been ruled out of the inaugural tournament with a groin strain, whilst Reds flyer Campbell Magnay and Warringah star Harry Jones will also miss the tournament after picking up injuries in Club Rugby.

Despite that, coach Adrian Thompson is confident his side can impress in matches against Samoa, New Zealand and Japan over the next week.

“The squad has already gelled together really well and we are looking forward to our first match against Samoa,” Thompson said.

Randwick flyer Andrew Kellaway will captain the side that also features Australia 7’s squad member Brad Wilkin.

“The team we’ve picked has a lot of developing experience with Andrew Deegan to be our starting flyhallf after a successful tournament at the National U20’s Championship.”

Thompson is hopeful the tournament will help the Australians better prepare for the Junior World Cup, to be held in Italy in June and wants to hit the ground running against Samoa.

“We expect a tough physical battle up front against the Samoans and our forwards will need to be ready for that challenge,” he said.

The Australian U20’s side face Samoa at Bond University on the Gold Coast from 3pm this Friday with the match to be streamed via www.rugby.com.au.

Australian U20’s team to play Samoa:
1.Cameron Orr
2. Connal McInerney
3. Tyrell Lomax
4. Ned Hannigan
5. Riley Winter
6. Brad Wilkin (vc)
7. Michael Gunn
8. Lolo Fakaosilea
9. James Tuttle
10. Andrew Deegan
11. Jack Redden
12. Duncan Paia’aua
13. Andrew Kellaway (c)
14. Christian Yassmin
15. Alex Newsome

Reserves:
16.Folau Faingaa
17. Aaron Pleash
18.Fereti Saaga
19. Lukhan Lealaiauloto-Tui
20. Olly Kamp
21. Harry Nucifora
22. James Dalgleish
23. Tyson Davis