Young Lincoln rugby talent make national squad

Along with George Bell, Joe Brial, Jamie Hannah and Jone Rova, he has been named in the New Zealand U20 men's rugby squad members to play in July’s Oceania Cup against Argentina, Fiji and Australia.

It will be the first international fixtures in three years for the squad due to COVID-19 restrictions.

George and Seb made their debuts for the Crusaders earlier in the season, and the quintet are following in the footsteps of All Blacks like former Sports Scholar Jack Goodhue, who played for the U20s while he was a student at Lincoln.

The squad kick off their campaign against Fiji on July 1 at Sunshine Coast Stadium, then face Argentina on July 5 and Australia on July 10 at the same venue.

Their naming builds on a great 2022 for Lincoln rugby, with five members of the Lincoln University premier women’s side, the Ewes, securing Black Ferns contracts and playing alongside alumna Kendra Cocksedge.

Their success in securing national recognition reflects the efficacy of the Lincoln University Sports Scholarships in growing the rugby talent, having built the Rams and Ewes into formidable sides, as well as contributing to Canterbury rugby.