Luton duo set for Twickenham spotlight in County Final

Two rising stars of Bedfordshire rugby will take centre stage at the home of English rugby this weekend, as Toby Hunt and Callum Lodder line up for East Midlands U20s in the prestigious Jason Leonard County Championship Final at Twickenham.

The pair, who will face Hertfordshire U20s on Saturday, represent not only the strength of the East Midlands set-up, but also a remarkable journey that began more than a decade ago at Luton RFC’s Newlands Road ground. Second row Hunt and Callum Lodder first pulled on boots together at just five years old, both products of the highly regarded Luton RFC minis section.

Their progression through the club’s youth and academy system has been closely intertwined ever since, developing side by side into two of the region’s most promising young talents. Their shared pathway is a testament to the strength of grassroots rugby, with both players benefiting from consistent coaching, competitive exposure, and a strong club culture that has helped shape their development on and off the field.

The duo’s ability was recognised early, with both Hunt and Lodder earning selection for Northampton Saints’ academy system, where they represented the Premiership club from U13s through to U18s. Competing at that level not only refined their technical skills but also exposed them to elite performance environments, laying the foundation for their continued rise in the game.

This weekend’s final brings extra responsibility for Hunt, who has been named captain of the East Midlands U20s side. The commanding second row will lead his team out at Twickenham, tasked with guiding a talented squad in one of the most significant fixtures in age-grade rugby. Known for his work rate, physical presence, and composure, Hunt’s leadership appointment reflects both his on-field influence and the respect he commands among teammates.

Despite their representative honours, both players are currently plying their trade with Old Northamptonians, where they have already enjoyed notable success this season. The pair have been part of a side that claimed both the Alliance Cup and the Lewis Shield at Northampton Saints’ Franklin’s Gardens, underlining their impact at senior level. They also played a key role in securing East Midlands U20 National Counties Regional Final victory away to North Midlands, further highlighting their continued progression and winning mentality within the club game.

Saturday’s final marks a proud occasion not only for the players, but for Luton RFC and the wider local rugby network that has supported their journey. For two players who started together as youngsters on muddy pitches in Bedfordshire, stepping out at Twickenham represents both a milestone and the continuation of a shared dream. As East Midlands prepare to face Hertfordshire in the final, all eyes will be on Hunt and Lodder—two teammates, lifelong friends, and now, ambassadors for their club on one of rugby’s biggest stages.