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Canada Unveils Fresh Lineup for Meehan’s First Test

Featuring two uncapped players in the matchday 23, the squad signals a shift toward a faster, more expansive game ahead of July tests

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Overview

  • Meehan’s inaugural matchday 23 for Saturday’s test against No. 23 Belgium includes Cooper Coats making his first start at fly-half and fullback Brenden Black earning his first 15s cap.
  • The coach’s original 59-man roster featured 20 uncapped players, and he advanced two—Brenden Black and sevens veteran Kyle Tremblay—into the matchday selection to identify new talent.
  • Flanker Lucas Rumball remains captain under Meehan with hooker Andrew Quattrin appointed vice-captain, blending fresh faces with established leadership.
  • Canada hosts Belgium on July 12 and Spain on July 18 at Edmonton’s Clarke Stadium as tune-ups for the Pacific Nations Cup, which doubles as a qualifier for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
  • Meehan’s December appointment coincides with a deliberate move toward a quicker, more expansive style designed to reverse Canada’s slide since missing the 2023 World Cup.