The 2023/24 World Rugby Sevens Series, known as SVNS, is set to make its sixth stop in Hong Kong, China from April 5-7. The New Zealand women’s team is closing the gap on Australia in the overall standings to just four points after securing a second consecutive victory at the last stop in Los Angeles. Michaela Blyde was instrumental in their recent win, scoring 12 tries and achieving a hat-trick against Australia.
The Black Ferns Sevens are aiming for a hat-trick of wins and look poised to succeed with Blyde’s impressive form. On the other hand, Australia, the current overall leaders, have not won gold since the second round in Cape Town and are eager to change that. Maddison Levi has been a standout player for them so far, showcasing her speed and power on the field.
In the women’s draw in Hong Kong, New Zealand will face off against Olympic hosts France in Pool A. Meanwhile, on the men’s side, France claimed their first title in 19 years in LA with Antoine Dupont playing a key role. Ireland moved up to second overall with a bronze finish in the last round. Despite injuries, Great Britain made it to the cup final but ultimately lost to France.
France will take on double Olympic champions Fiji and current SVNS leaders Argentina face Team GB and reigning champions New Zealand in Pool B. The top eight teams based on cumulative series points after seven events will compete in the new ‘winner takes all’ Grand Final in Madrid where the champions will be crowned.
