Canada name six uncapped players in 32-man Nations Cup squad as Ardron and Rumball return

Stephen Meehan has named a 32-man Canada squad for next month’s Nations Cup that includes six uncapped players alongside a core of experienced internationals, with the Canucks opening their campaign against Spain in Edmonton on July 4 before facing Portugal and Zimbabwe later in the month.

Among the familiar faces returning to the national setup are former captain Tyler Ardron, lock Evan Olmstead and hooker Andrew Quattrin. Lucas Rumball, who captained the Chicago Hounds to the Major League Rugby title, also rejoins the squad with 65 caps to his name.

The six potential debutants — Josh McIndoe, Liam James, Jacob Ince, Henry Kirwan, Cody Nhanala and Bryce Worden — have been rewarded for their performances at age-grade, university and club level.

Canada will be without several established players through injury or unavailability, including Ben LeSage, Brock Webster, Conor Young, Matt Beukeboom, Matthew Oworu and Talon McMullin.

Meehan acknowledged the challenges that shifting availability will create across the competition’s three windows, but struck an optimistic tone about the group he has assembled.

“This squad brings together a strong blend of experienced players, individuals returning to the national program after some time away, and some new faces who have earned their opportunity,” he said. “It’s an exciting mix that reflects both the depth and potential within Canadian rugby.”

The head coach added that the Nations Cup — a new competition — presents a chance for players to step forward and stake their claim. “We believe this group gives us an excellent platform for the three matches ahead. They are capable of playing an exciting brand of rugby, and we’re looking forward to bringing everyone together, building strong connections on and off the field, and preparing to perform at our best when match day arrives.”

Canada Nations Cup squad

Forwards: Andrew Quattrin (US Carcassonne, 29 caps), Barnaby Waddell (Bridgend Ravens, 2), Bryce Worden (West Harbour Rugby Club, uncapped), Calixto Martinez (Old Glory DC, 12), Cody Nhanala (University of British Columbia, uncapped), Cole Keith (Doncaster Knights, 44), Dewald Kotze (Seattle Seawolves, 13), Evan Olmstead (SU Agen, 35), Foster Dewitt (Peñarol Rugby, 6), Izzak Kelly (SL Benfica, 13), Kyle Steeves (Hunter Wildfires, 5), Lucas Rumball (Chicago Hounds, 65), Mason Flesch (Chicago Hounds, 20), Piers Von Dadelszen (New England Free Jacks, 13), Reegan O’Gorman (UBCOB Ravens, 6), Sam Miller (Benfica SL, 4), Siôn Parry (Ebbw Vale RFC, 16), Tyler Ardron (Castres Olympique, 39).

Backs: Brock Gallagher (Strathcona Druids RFC, 12 caps), Cooper Coats (UVIC Vikes, 21), Henry Kirwan (Cardiff Metropolitan University, uncapped), Jacob Ince (Taranaki Rugby, uncapped), Jason Higgins (Cork Constitution, 27), Josh McIndoe (uncapped).