Star try-scorer Maddison Levi is set to make a vital comeback for Australia at the revamped Hong Kong Sevens from March 28 to 30.
The current world women’s sevens player of the year, Levi has been out of action since January due to a fractured thumb sustained during play in Perth.
Although Australia clinched victory at their home tournament without Levi, they had to settle for third place in Vancouver in February.
Maddison Levi of Australia evades Amee Leigh Murphy Crowe of Ireland. Getty
Australia currently sits second on the standings with 70 points, trailing arch-rivals New Zealand who lead with 76 points, with only two tournaments remaining.
The reinforcements of Levi and Sariah Paki (calf injury) are essential as the squad copes with the significant absences of Charlotte Caslick, Bienne Terita, Demi Hayes, and Heidi Dennis.
Caslick and Terita are dedicating their focus to Super Rugby Women’s, while Hayes and Dennis are sidelined due to injuries.
Kai Tak Stadium, with a capacity of 50,000, is set to host the Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament. Getty
This prestigious tournament will be held at the brand-new, state-of-the-art Kai Tak Stadium, which has a seating capacity of 50,000, and is expected to draw record crowds.
“A redesigned Hong Kong Sevens is upon us, featuring a new stadium and another incredible venue,” said Australia coach Tim Walsh.
“We are presenting the youngest squad in our history, with the least total caps since 2015, and facing our most challenging preparations ever.
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“It’s a perfect storm for the Aussie sevens to showcase character and resilience.
“As we head into China, we are drawing on ancient Chinese principles to prepare for the challenges ahead. Our mantra is ‘True gold does not fear the flame.’
Meanwhile, Australia men’s team coach Liam Barry has brought back teenager Hadley Tonga, following an injury to Michael Icely (knee).
Kai Tak Stadium will seat 50,000 and is set to host the Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament. Getty
Tonga made his first appearance in Perth but was left out for Vancouver, where the team ended in seventh place.
“Hong Kong is the original and iconic event, and we’re excited to experience the new stadium on the first day,” Barry remarked.
“Several players were unwell in Vancouver; we had a few who struggled to get out of bed to play, so it was a commendable effort. I believe we performed better in Vancouver compared to our second-place finish in Perth.
“We aim to maintain our standing in the league, keep progressing, and enhance the areas we’ve improved on throughout the season.”
The Australian men have been placed in Pool B, facing New Zealand, South Africa, and Uruguay.
Australia’s women will take on Spain and Canada on the opening day in Pool C, followed by a match against Japan on day two.
WOMEN’S DRAW
- Friday, March 28: Australia vs Spain – 1:53 PM AEDT
- Friday, March 28: Australia vs Canada – 4:57 PM AEDT
- Saturday, March 29: Australia vs Japan – 12:53 PM AEDT
MEN’S DRAW
- Friday, March 28: Australia vs New Zealand – 8:30 PM AEDT
- Friday, March 28: Australia vs South Africa – 11:39 PM AEDT
- Saturday, March 29: Australia vs Uruguay – 4:20 PM AEDT
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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