We pause for the anthems.

Both sides take to the field!

Hello all and welcome to Ultimate Rugby's coverage of the opening day of the World Rugby U20 Championship. In this clash, we have two-time winners and hosts England, who take on European counterparts, Italy, in Manchester. Both sides have not come into this competition with an abundance of confidence following disappointing U20 6 Nations campaigns. England managed to pick up only one win from a possible 5, with their only victory coming against opponents, Italy, who were without a win in the campaign. England do however welcome rising star Harry Malinder into the fray, who is sure to make a big impact. This opening day has already seen some upsets with Scotland defeating Australia and Ireland beating Wales, can Italy add to the tally?

forza Italia