The New Zealand Under 20 team will return home World Champions for the first time since 2011 after defeating England 21-16 in a hard fought Final in Cremona, Italy this morning,

New Zealand ran out the winners over defending champions England to claim their fifth World Rugby Under 20 Championship title and their first since 2011 when they also defeated England in Italy.

New Zealand Rugby Chief Executive Steve Tew said the result was a tremendous achievement against a strong England side.

"We are very proud of this team of young men who have shown such determination and skill to honour the great record of New Zealand teams in this championship.

"The tournament has become increasingly competitive in recent years so today's win is a huge achievement for the players and their management team led by coaches Scott Robertson, Leon McDonald and Tana Umaga.

"This championship provides a great pathway for young players to prove themselves on the international stage and the success today shows the depth of exciting young rugby talent coming through the ranks which augers well for the future," said Tew.

"We congratulate the team on a very impressive result and look forward to welcoming them home."

The team returns to New Zealand on Tuesday.