Head coach Tim Walsh exudes confidence regarding the depth of Australia’s sevens talent despite an increasing number of injuries affecting his lineup.
Walsh will be without the exceptional try-scorer Maddison Levi (thumb) for the Vancouver Sevens, which commence on Saturday (AEDT).
The team’s injury list resembles a full sevens squad, with Levi now joining Sariah Paki (calf), Bienne Terita (hamstring), and Madison Ashby, Kaitlin Shave, Sidney Taylor, and Alysia Lefau-Fakaosilea, all of whom are dealing with knee injuries.
Maddison Levi of Australia breaks away from Amee Leigh Murphy Crowe of Ireland. Getty
Bridget Clark steps in for Levi at the Vancouver tournament after recovering from her own back injury.
Australia currently sits two points behind leaders New Zealand in the series standings following three of the six tournaments.
“We are progressing as a squad, and our younger players are developing admirably,” Walsh remarked.
Australia coach Tim Walsh addresses players during the 2023 Sydney Sevens. Getty
“We have already clinched two tournament wins from three in dramatic gold medal matches and aim for a third in Vancouver.
“This season, the team has exhibited remarkable resilience and depth, especially with several players sidelined due to injuries.
“We have a selection of world-class athletes currently in rehab back in Australia, and we anticipate a few of them returning for the Hong Kong and Singapore legs of the world series.”
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In pool play, Australia will face off against Spain, Brazil, and Canada.
In other news, the Australian men’s team has welcomed back co-captain Henry Paterson for the Vancouver tournament.
Paterson underwent syndesmosis surgery on his ankle in December and takes the place of rookie Hadley Tonga.
Australia’s Henry Paterson weaves through the Kenyan defence to score a try. AP
The men currently occupy sixth place in the overall standings.
“As we head into Vancouver, we aim for notable improvement in our gameplay and consistency, which are essential for us,” commented Australia coach Liam Barry.
“The boys displayed solid preparation and strong performances in Perth, winning tight contests in a competition marked by slim margins, and I hope they have a realistic perspective on where we could have placed compared to where we ended up.
“Having ‘Patto’ back is fantastic; he will co-captain alongside Henry Hutchison.
“Though he hasn’t played since Cape Town, he is ready to contribute significantly to the team.”
The men’s team will face off against Ireland, New Zealand, and South Africa in a competitive pool.
Australia’s women’s squad: Isabella Nasser (c), Piper Simons, Faith Nathan, Mackenzie Davis, Teagan Levi, Charlotte Caslick, Tia Hinds, Demi Hayes, Heidi Dennis, Bridget Clark, Kahli Henwood, Ruby Nicholas, Kiiahla Duff
Australia’s men’s squad: Henry Hutchison (co-c), Henry Paterson (co-c), Ben Dowling, Matt Gonzalez, Ben Dalton, Maurice Longbottom, Jayden Blake, James Turner, Sid Harvey, Aden Ekanayake, Hayden Sargeant, Josh Turner, Michael Icely
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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