---
title: "Mauga Return Gives New Zealand U20 Scotland Selection Edge"
canonical: "https://readrugbyunion.com/2026/06/30/patrick-mauga-new-zealand-u20-scotland-selection/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "ryan"
section: "International"
published: "2026-06-30T12:23:28Z"
modified: "2026-06-30T12:24:24Z"
---

# Mauga Return Gives New Zealand U20 Scotland Selection Edge

**Patrick Mauga has been restored at No.8 as New Zealand U20 make three changes for their second Junior World Championship pool match against Scotland.**

Head coach Kane Jury has adjusted the side that opened Pool B with a 38-21 win over Japan, a match abandoned early because of lightning around AIA Arena in Kutaisi. Mauga missed that opener through injury but now comes straight into the back row for a fixture carrying sharper physical stakes.

Ethan Webber also moves into the starting XV at tighthead, while Cohen Norrie starts at fullback. Dane Johnston and Logan Williams drop to a bench loaded with six forwards and two backs, a selection call that points directly at Scotland’s breakdown threat and carrying power.

## Why Jury Has Tightened The Pack

Jury’s language was revealing. New Zealand expect a fast, abrasive Scotland side after their [38-32 win over Italy](https://readrugbyunion.com/2026/06/29/scotland-u20-italy-junior-world-championship-mchaffie/), where the Scots scored six tries and showed enough width to punish loose defensive spacing.

The return of Mauga gives New Zealand a heavier No.8 presence, while captain Haki Wiseman remains at inside centre and Caleb Woodley continues as vice-captain on the openside. That blend suggests New Zealand want collision security first, then tempo.

[New Zealand U20 v Japan U20 highlights (embedded)](https://www.youtube.com/embed/GsZxlJeaYDM)

New Zealand face Scotland at AIA Arena on Friday 3 July, kicking off at 2.00am NZT. The final Pool B match against Italy follows on Tuesday 7 July.

**Source:** [New Zealand Rugby](https://www.allblacks.com/news/nz-under-20-team-named-to-play-scotland), [SANZAAR/Super Rugby](https://super.rugby/therugbychampionship/news/nz-under-20-team-named-to-play-scotland-in-world-championships/).