A YOUNG rugby player from Yarm School has been selected for the England under-17 squad.

Zach Kibirige, 15, from Kirklevington, was selected after attending an England under-16 development training camp in Leeds.

Zach currently plays for Yarm School XV and Newcastle Falcons Academy, where he captains the squad.

This season Zach will attend England training camps run by Rugby Football Union elite coaches in preparation for two international fixtures in April, against France and Scotland.

Head of boys’ games, Chris Webb, said: “Zach is a talented rugby player with a strong determination to succeed.

“It is a tremendous achievement, not only because of the high competition for places but also because he has been selected a year young.

“Zach has worked extremely hard and deserves this opportunity.”

Zach said: “I was extremely surprised as did not expect to be selected.

“I am looking forward to meeting the team at the first development camp this month. I just need to keep my feet on the ground and work hard.”