Jamaica Hurricanes Academy U-19s will square off against touring Wigan-Leigh College from England in what Rugby League Jamaica describes as “a groundbreaking rugby league Test match” at the UWI Mona Bowl on Saturday.

This marks the first time Hurricanes will field an U-19 team against international opponents in the 13-a-side version of the game. Kick-off is scheduled for 3:30 pm.

The Wigan-Leigh College team, currently on a development tour to Jamaica, is from the North of England and linked to English professional club Leigh Leopards, competing in the Super League.

During their stay, they have conducted coaching and match official seminars with local personnel and hosted coaching clinics at the Cedar Grove Academy in Portmore, St Catherine, and Campion College in St Andrew. They are the fourth international team to tour the island within the past six months.

The Hurricanes have already gained a significant milestone from the tour, securing a 12-8 victory over the visitors in the U-19 Academy Finals at the New Year 9s on February 17. The historic win marked the first time a domestic Jamaica team earned a win against a team from England in any format of the game.

The Hurricanes are comprised of Jamaica’s top High School and Club U-19 players, the academy is an integral part of the domestic development for elite players.

Looking towards the game, Hurricanes Academy Coach Antonio Baker said, “Rugby League Jamaica has dedicated considerable effort to developing rugby league at the grassroots level. The Test will offer a valuable opportunity to assess our progress, facing top-tier opposition from England. I am confident the team will give their best effort, as they all aspire to represent their country admirably.”

Wigan-Leigh College Coach Kieron Purtill says he is grateful for the hospitality his squad was shown by the Jamaican rugby league community.

“The reception we’ve received in Jamaica from the rugby league community has been outstanding since the day we arrived,” he said. “Participating in the Nines tournament was a fantastic experience for our team, showcasing a very high standard and significant participation. We eagerly anticipate our test match this Saturday as we prepare to take on a swift and robust Jamaican team. Rugby league emerges as the ultimate victor, and our partnership between Leigh Leopards, Wigan-Leigh College, in conjunction with Rugby League Jamaica, has provided a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all the young players involved. We hope this tour paves the way for other teams to visit and partake in what we’ve experienced, further aiding the development of rugby league in Jamaica.”