CANFORD School pupils Tom Patrick and Brennan Dyball have been selected for the Lambs under-16 squad.

The Lambs is the Rugby Football Union squad for independent schools which gives boys the chance to showcase their skills at a representative level.

The 27-strong squad was chosen following 150 initial nominations and a trial for 80 players at Uppingham School, Rutland, in February.

Some 23 schools are represented within the final squad, with Canford being one of just four schools to have two pupils selected.

Lambs under-16s are set for a busy couple of months, with fixtures against Worcester Warriors, Yorkshire and Saracens.

Canford director of rugby Peter Short said: “Tom and Brennan faced strong competition from top independent schools across the UK including Eton and Harrow. We are all very proud of their excellent achievement.

"It is also national recognition of Canford’s commitment to player development and to the strength and quality of school rugby. Both players were part of the Canford colts team which won the county championship for the second consecutive year this season.

"We all wish Tom and Brennan every success with the Lambs squad.”

Lambs national director Alex Layborne said: “There was a high standard of players from all over the country and selection has been tough for under-16s manager James Melville and his management team.

"We are happy the squad selected will fulfil our fast and free philosophy and that the group will produce some great rugby in Lambs under-16s' first year.

"The fixture list will be tough but also allows the players to show what the programme is all about, as well as showcasing their talents and the development their schools have put into them.”