The U21 squad looks to build on from 2 successful seasons which saw them come within 2 points of qualifying from the groups in the season 54 European competition and successfully qualifying for the knockout rounds in the season 53 world consultation tournament, before losing to eventual winners Israel. This seasons squad sees 5 players return for a 2nd junior season, Sivasekaran Kanjilal, Andy King, Jamie Hermann, David Hughes and Gilbert Harrison.
The u21 campaign starts off in the same way the senior squad do, with an away trip to 83 ranked Iceland. Despite Iceland’s low ranking, they shouldn’t be underestimated as they have 2 star bigs who will cause a lot of problems for their opponents this season. Js8 and Arrows will be hoping Hermann and King can limit their effectiveness.
The U21s then face 35 ranked Belgium in the second game of the consultation tournament. Belgium will be hoping to emulate their senior rankings rise which saw them rise from the 19th to 7th best team in the world. The junior squad hasn’t been as successful, but still pose a difficult threat for the England U21 squad.
Coach js8 and assistant Arrows are excited for the season ahead and have high hopes of qualifying for the knockout rounds in the world tournament for the second time in a row.