With the team now having achieved what they set out to do from day one, the undefeated NSW U16 Waratahs are eager to head to Queensland this weekend and attempt to bring home the silverware by winning the Super Rugby U16’s competition.
The Tahs have been the team to beat all season. They ended the regular rounds with an impressive points difference of +272 and secured a decisive 70-12 victory over the Western Force in round five.
Now, they face their final challenge against a tough Queensland Reds side that has momentum of their own, coming off a 46-11 win over the Melbourne Rebels. But it’s a challenge the Tahs are ready for.
NSW Waratahs Talent Identification Manager Andrew Cleverly shared insights into the team's strong preparation for the grand final:
“This week has been a headache for selectors with many quality players fit and ready to participate.”
“The success of our program has been based around the depth of our squad and the work they do on and off the field.”
Cleverly emphasised that every training session pushes the team to new heights, explaining,
“The team train against players that are just as good, if not better, than their opponents, meaning they have optimal preparation ahead of each weekend.”
Having already defeated the Reds earlier this season in a commanding 50-20 performance, the Tahs have a clear formula for success that they plan to repeat and even extend.
Full-back Kden Carter is confident in their approach:
“Sticking to what we know is going to be important this weekend. Passing through our backs and going out wide is a strength of ours because we know we have a lot of speed to burn and skill to blast any team we come up against.”
He added that the team thrives on the challenge of away games, “We’re over the moon to go up there and give them a real challenge in their hometown.”
The Waratahs’ unbeaten season has been fuelled by standout individual and team performances, with 10 players named in Rugby Australia’s round-five Team of the Week from their performance in Western Australia.
Rugby Australia will watch the grand final closely with selections for the Australia U16’s team to be announced in the coming weeks. The Tahs will travel to Queensland together on Saturday having the night together as a team to prepare for the big grand final at Ballymore come Sunday.
Carter reflected on the unique bond the players have built throughout the season: “Us boys have gotten pretty close, and knowing it’s our last game, we’re going to go out there and play harder than all the previous weeks. It’s the last dance. We want to go out there and leave nothing behind.”
As they look to cap off an incredible season, the NSW U16 Waratahs are ready to end victorious on their final hurdle, confident in their speed, depth, and unity. All eyes will be on them this weekend to see if they can bring home the title in true Waratah style.
Match Details
Super Rugby Men’s U16 – Grand Final: NSW Waratahs Vs Queensland Reds.
Sunday, November 3 at Ballymore Field 1, QLD.
Kick-off at 2:05 pm AEDT.
The match will be broadcast live and ad-free on Stan Sport.
