Zach Fittler, the son of rugby league icon Brad Fittler, has been selected for Australia’s under-20 Rugby Championship squad touring South Africa. A formidable centre, Zach has shifted his focus from rugby league to rugby union, marking a significant change in his career path. Despite his rugby league roots with the Roosters in the Harold Matthews Cup and SG Ball, where he also represented New South Wales as a junior, he has committed to a professional future in rugby union by signing a two-year development contract with the NSW Waratahs starting in September 2024.
Notably, Zach distinguished himself as a member of the first XV at The Scots College and played a key role in the Waratahs’ success at the under-16 National Championship in 2022. The Australian under-20 team coach, Chris Whitaker, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming series, highlighting the importance of their recent training camp in Coffs Harbour and the value of competing against strong international opponents.
Australia’s U20 squad is set to embark on a challenging series of matches at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha, facing off against New Zealand on April 27, South Africa on May 4, and Argentina on May 9. The tournament presents a pivotal opportunity for the young players to gain valuable experience on the international stage.
Brad Fittler’s illustrious career spanned tenures with the Panthers, Roosters, and the NSW Blues, cementing his status in rugby history. The current squad for the under-20 Rugby Championship includes players such as Ewald Kruger, Tavita Loughland, and Zach Fittler, among others, indicating a blend of emerging talent prepared to represent Australia on this prestigious platform.