Brad Fittler's son named to tour South Africa with Australian under-20 rugby squad
The son of rugby league legend Brad Fittler has been named to tour South Africa for Australia's under-20 Rugby Championship campaign.
Zach Fittler, a bullocking centre who in recent years chose to carve out a path in the 15-man game rather than rugby league, forms part of a 31-man squad set to play three matches at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha in South Africa's east.
Fittler played rugby league for the Roosters in the Harold Matthews Cup and SG Ball, and was a NSW Blues junior, but he opted to pursue a professional career in rugby union and signed a two-year development deal with the NSW Waratahs in September 2024.
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Fittler also played in the first XV at The Scots College and was a standout in the Waratahs' victorious under-16 National Championship campaign in 2022.
"We are looking forward to taking the momentum from our week-long camp in Coffs Harbour and building upon it with three tough games in South Africa," said Chris Whitaker, the coach of Australia's under-20 team.
Zach Fittler pictured in 2024. Getty
"The Rugby Championship U20 provides us with another opportunity to continue developing as a team against top opposition in unique circumstances.
"Our group is ready to embrace the challenge and are excited to get the chance to represent Australia on the international stage."
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Australia will face New Zealand on April 27, South Africa on May 4 and Argentina on May 9.
Brad Fittler enjoyed a decorated career with the Panthers, Roosters, NSW Blues and Australia.
Australia's squad for under-20 Rugby Championship
Ewald Kruger, Tavita Loughland, Cooper Eagle, Eli Langi, Chayse Geros, Riley Whitfeld, Jasper Asi, Jacob Job, Jonah Rangiwai, Charlie Hollyman, Kenneth Harris, Will Ross, Tom Robinson, Finn Mackay, Frankie Goldsbrough, Taione Taka, Edwin Langi, Harper Strachan, Nick Hill, Tyler Maybery, Isaac Fonua, Luca Cleverley, Marshall Le Maitre, Toby Brial, Angus Grover, Sam Blank, Jonty Fowler, Zach Fittler, Cooper Watters, Leo Jaques, Louis Fenwicke
