Ex-Dees star Skelcey named in England U18s squad

Former Dunstablians player and Queensbury Academy pupil Josh Skelcey, 18, has been named in the England U18’s 26-man squad to tour South Africa.

Now in the Northampthon Saints Academy, the Dunstablian wing, who lives on Canesworde Road, played in the European Championships that England won in France in March.

England U18 head coach John Fletcher is hoping the youngsters can build on their European success from March.

“The summer tour is an important part of the England U18’s season,” he said. “We’re excited about heading out to South Africa for the second year in a row and it’s a good opportunity for our lads to play against the best players in their age bracket.

“We performed well in the FIRA/AER European Championship and we’ll be looking to perform well out there.

“The value of touring is there for all to see last year the likes of Danny Hobbs-Awoyemi, Ross Moriarty, Callum Braley and Tom Stephenson all came out to South Africa, and this season they have won the Six Nations and the IRB Junior World Championship with the U20s.

“We know that all three games will be tough – we know the qualities that Wales and France possess and playing South Africa in their own back yard is one of the biggest tests in world rugby, but it’s one we’re looking forward to.”

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Ex-Dees star Skelcey named in England U18s squad