Player named for U20s squad

HE'S IN: BrettCameron is in the squad's development camp.

WANGANUI'S Brett Cameron has been named among 50 players to attend the first development camp for the New Zealand Under 20 squad's 2016 campaign, which will culminate in the World Rugby U20 Championship in England.

Formally of Cullinane College and a Wanganui Under 19 representative, Cameron has been attending Lincoln University this year, where he was looking to further his rugby and cricket opportunities.

Cameron has been a regular for the Active Physio Wanganui representative cricket team and also previously captained the Central Districts Under 17 squad.

As a first-five, Cameron's rugby skills in the past few seasons have been just as impressive.

In 2013 he was chosen from players from 49 schools to play for the inaugural Catholic schools 1st XV, then in June 2014 was selected for a Hurricanes region training camp.

In September 2014 he trialled for the New Zealand Secondary Schools team but did not make the final cut.

Interestingly, in his time in the Wanganui Under 19s, Cameron's form was strong enough that he played in the No10 jersey while Stephen Perofeta, future Hurricanes Under 18 and New Zealand Heartland XV first-five, covered the fullback berth.

Cameron is one of six Canterbury-based players chosen for the national Under 20 camp, which will be held from November 27 to December 2.

Further camps are planned in March and April.

Coach Scott Robertson said he was excited and looking forward to the first major camp for the Under 20 hopefuls.

"It's always fantastic to see new bunch of guys come through, and it's always great to see who's willing to work hard and take this incredible opportunity. These boys will know they have a very real chance of turning rugby into a profession if they have the determination and willpower to keep working hard for it.

"The fact that 15 of this year's championship team have been named in Super Rugby squads or wider training groups, demonstrates the level of talent New Zealand keeps producing."

The Under 20 squad will play in an Oceania tournament in Australia next year before preparing for the World Championship in Manchester.