New Zealand Sevens team named for London and Edinburgh tournaments
Photo: allblacks.com/Photosport
New Zealand Sevens Coach Gordon Tietjens has named his squad for the final two legs of the HSBC Sevens World Series in London and Edinburgh.
The side had one change from the team that went to Hong Kong and Adelaide last month, with North Harbour’s David Raikuna replacing Waikato’s Rory Grice.
Tietjens said he was satisfied with the consistency of his team’s performance this season.
“We have won four out of the six tournaments this year and it is great to be going into these final two tournaments in the lead, but we know that any of the top five teams can win these tournaments so we can’t be complacent.
“England is still a real threat to us and we will need to perform at the top of our game to secure the Series title,” he said.
New Zealand has won eight previous Sevens World Series titles, the last one being in 2008, and after six tournaments in the HSBC Series they currently lead the standings 134 points.
The London tournament takes place from 21-22 May and the Edinburgh tournament on 28-29 May.
New Zealand Sevens team for London and Edinburgh:
Toby Arnold Bay of Plenty
Tomasi Cama Manawatu
Scott Curry Bay of Plenty
DJ Forbes, captain Counties Manukau
Frank Halai Waikato
Bryce Heem Auckland
Solomon King North Harbour
Tim Mikkelson Waikato
Declan O’Donnell Waikato
Buxton Popoalii Otago
Lote Raikabula Manawatu
David Raikuna North Harbour
London tournament (all times are local)
21 May
New Zealand v Kenya, 11.58am
New Zealand v Spain, 3.04pm
New Zealand v Wales, 7.06pm
22 May
Finals day
Edinburgh tournament (all times are local)
28 May
New Zealand v Russia, 10.30am
New Zealand v France, 1.36pm
New Zealand v Argentina, 5.43pm
29 May
Finals day
*******
For further information contact:
Kate Hutchison
NZRU Communications Administrator
M: 027 591 4673
E: kate.hutchison@nzrugby.co.nz