2025 U18 International Rugby Series: Fixtures, Key Players & What to Expect in Paarl

The prestigious U18 International Rugby Series returns to Paarl Gimnasium this August, bringing together some of the world’s most exciting youth rugby talent. This annual tournament has become a cornerstone of elite schoolboy rugby, offering a stage where the next generation of international stars first make their mark.

Venue

All fixtures will be played at Paarl Gimnasium, one of South Africa’s most iconic rugby schools, located in the heart of the Western Cape's rugby country.

Match Days & Fixtures: August 2025

Matchday 1: Tuesday, 12 August 2025

• 11:30 – South Africa A U18 vs Ireland U18

• 13:30 – England U18 vs Georgia U18

• 15:30 – South Africa U18 vs France U18

  
  

A tough opening day for the Irish, who fell 32–3 to England in last year’s encounter. South Africa also opened strong in 2024 with a dominant win over France.

Matchday 2: Saturday, 16 August 2025

• 11:30 – South Africa A U18 vs Georgia U18

• 13:30 – South Africa U18 vs Ireland U18

• 15:30 – England U18 vs France U18

  
  

This marks one of the most anticipated fixtures of the series. In 2023, SA edged Ireland 33–26 in a gripping encounter. Expect fireworks again this year.

Matchday 3: Wednesday, 20 August 2025

• 11:30 – South Africa A U18 vs France U18

• 13:30 – Ireland U18 vs Georgia U18

• 15:30 – South Africa U18 vs England U18

  
  

This final day will determine bragging rights for the series. England and South Africa last met in 2024’s decider, with SA coming out 35–20 winners.

South Africa U18: Players to Watch

South Africa’s U18 squad for the 2025 International Series features a crop of exciting young talent ready to light up Paarl Gimnasium.

Here are three standout players to keep an eye on:

Markus Muller (Inside Centre – Paar Gim)

A prolific try-scorer and accumulator of points, Muller has already crossed the 50-try mark for Paarl Gim and starred in the SA Schools jersey. In the 2024 U18 Series opener, he scored under the posts in SA’s 38–26 win over Ireland and followed that with multiple try haul performances during the 2025 Craven Week.

Zekhethelo Siyaya (Fullback – Westville Boys High)

A powerful fullback with back-to-back tries against Ireland in the 2024 U18 opener and a break-scoring threat throughout Craven Week. Siyaya was selected for SA Schools again in 2025, highlighting his consistent impact on the outside channels . This is probably SA's most anticipated player at the moment!

Ethan Adams (Centre – Grey College)

Chosen again for SA Schools in 2025 after a standout Craven Week, Adams offers solid defence, line-breaking ability, and midfield insight. He battles for Grey College's and is a rising presence in the national pathway after a breakthrough year last year at the Global Schools Challenge 2024.

Recap of Past Performances

South Africa U18 have consistently performed well in the International Series:

• 2024: Undefeated champions with wins over France, England & Ireland.

• 2023: Narrow 7-point loss to a strong France side, but dominant vs England.

• 2022: Undisputed champions after comfortably beating England and France.

More Information

Stay up to date with match results, highlights, and squad announcements by visiting houserugga.com/u18-international-rugby-fixtures.

You’ll find full details of the 2025 U18 International Series including team previews, score updates, player spotlights, and venue details.

Final Word

If you're a fan of rugby or simply want to witness the future of the sport, the 2025 U18 International Series at Paarl Gimnasium is a must-watch event. From fierce rivalries to raw, emerging talent, this is international schoolboy rugby at its best.