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Pledger sets his sight on redemption in World Rugby U20 Championship
Savannah Lendich Jonkers • July 11th, 2025 12:00 am
Dylan Pledger | Photo: Photosport
New Zealand under 20’s rugby halfback Dylan Pledger is looking for redemption over France in next week's World Championship semi-final after they were beaten 55-31 last year.
“It was a tough one,” Pledger told Sport Nation’s Scotty & Izzy.
“They really handed it to us, so I think it'll be cool to get one up over them,” he continued.
20-year-old Pledger, who is also the team's vice-captain, scored two tries in Thursday's thrashing against Ireland finishing 69-22.
Photo: Photosport
While the Baby Blacks have a strong kicking game, Pledger said the team are very strong on attack, becoming hard to stop.
“I think when we have the ball in hand it looks pretty sharp,” Pledger said.
Despite Pledger having worn the black jersey before, he still describes the opportunity as an “absolute privilege.”
“I'm pretty grateful to chuck the jersey on, as all the boys are, and I think it's just representing your country, your family and also yourself and just trying to do that to the best of your ability.”
The match taking place next Tuesday (4am NZ time) could give the New Zealand U20s a chance to go through to the final on July 20, something the side haven’t won since 2017.
Listen to the full interview below:
