NSW Waratahs 'A' Coach Shannon Fraser is confident that the side named to play the ACT Brumbies Runners at Daceyville, Sydney is up for the game that will continue their development in what is becoming a key fixture for both clubs.
Fraser highlighted the strong cohesion within the squad, despite limited preparation time together.
“This is a really experienced team,” Fraser said after the team’s ‘Captain’s Run’ at Daceyville on Friday.
“Today’s captain’s run was their first and only session together, but these players train regularly with the senior Waratahs squad and the under-20s system.
“They’ve been together now for around six weeks, so the key connections are already there.”
The NSW Waratahs 'A' vs. Brumbies Runners match-up has become a regular feature, offering valuable game time for players on the cusp of Super Rugby selection.
“You can train as much as you like, but nothing replaces game time,” Fraser said.
“When you have Super Rugby squads training with large groups, it’s vital that players who aren’t in the 'weekly 23' still get competitive minutes.
“The Brumbies are only three hours down the road, so this has been an ongoing tradition for many years now.”
Addressing the quality of play in these matchups, Fraser emphasised the high standard of competition.
“These games feature plenty of Super Rugby talent, which naturally raises the level, Fraser said.
“The mix of Academy players pushing for opportunities, regular Super Rugby players maintaining match fitness, and even internationals returning from injury means the standard is extremely high.
The Waratahs 'A' side will be led by talented fly-half Jack Bowen, whose leadership qualities have earned praise from Fraser.
“Jack’s an enthusiastic player with excellent attention to detail,” Fraser said.
“He’s got a strong voice in the group and has been in the professional setup for a number of years now.
“He has a handful of Super Rugby caps, has led teams successfully before, including winning a premiership with Easts, and was a key part of the Australian under-20s program.
“He brings excitement but also knowledge and composure to the group.”
With the game providing an opportunity for players to push their case for Super Rugby selection, Fraser is looking forward to seeing the squad take the field.
“It’s always great to see how players respond in a match environment,” Fraser said.
“These fixtures are a crucial part of our program, and we expect a high-intensity contest against a quality Brumbies outfit.”
- Loosehead Prop Tom Lambert (Sydney University)
2. Hooker Ethan Dobbins (Sydney University)
3. Tighthead Prop SioSifa Amone (Northern Suburbs)
4. Left Lock Ale Aho (West Harbour)
5. Right Lock Miles Amatosero (Eastern Suburbs)
6. Left Flanker Clem Hahaholo (Sydney University)
7. Right Flanker Marshall Le Maitre (Northern Suburbs)
8. Number Eight Mesu Kunavula (West Harbour)
9. Scrumhalf Michael McDonald (Ulster)
10. Flyhalf Jack Bowen (c) (Eastern Suburbs)
11. Left Wing Archie Saunders (Warringah)
12. Inside Centre Jackson Ropata (Warringah)
13. Outside Centre Liam Gover (Sydney University)
14. Right Wing Darby Lancaster (Eastern Suburbs)
15. Fullback James Hendren (Randwick)
17. Reserve Otavio Tuipolotu (Eastern Suburbs)
18. Reserve Jack Barrett (Eastern Suburbs)
19. Reserve Brad Amituanai (Sydney University)
20. Reserve Adrian Brown (Warringah)
21. Reserve Jacob Veiru (Eastern Suburbs)
22. Reserve Toby Brial (Eastern Suburbs)
23. Reserve Hwi Sharples (Sydney University)
24. Reserve Cooper Watters (Eastern Suburbs)
25. Reserve Zach Fittler (Eastern Suburbs)
26. Reserve Joey Fowler (Sydney University)
When: at 2 pm (AEDT) Saturday 22 March 2025
Where: David Phillips Sport Field, Daceyville, Sydney
The game will be streamed LIVE on www.nswrugbytv.com.au
