The South African rugby sevens powerhouse, the Blitzboks, are gearing up for a crucial showdown at the upcoming HSBC SVNS tournament in Hong Kong with the return of four key players to their squad.
Interim head coach Philip Snyman has announced the inclusion of Christie Grobbelaar, Ronald Brown, Dewald Human, and Quewin Nortje, all of whom missed the recent North American leg of the World Series due to various reasons.
Grobbelaar, who sustained an injury during last year’s season opener in Dubai, is set to make his long-awaited return to the squad.
Likewise, Human, absent since his last appearance in Cape Town in December, is back in contention. Brown and Nortje, sidelined due to injuries picked up in Perth, have also been cleared to rejoin the team.
However, the Blitzboks will be without the services of David Brits and Rosko Specman, who sustained injuries during training sessions. Tristan Leyds and James Murphy also miss out on this leg of the World Series.
Snyman expressed confidence in the reinvigorated squad, emphasizing the importance of their collective experience and unique skill sets.
With recent results falling below expectations, the team is eager to deliver improved performances and repay the faith of their supporters.
Captain Selvyn Davids is poised to mark his 35th HSBC SVNS tournament, a significant milestone for the seasoned player.
As the Blitzboks prepare to face Ireland, Spain, and Samoa in Pool C, Snyman acknowledges the tough challenge ahead but remains focused on advancing to the quarter-finals.
“It’s great to welcome back Christie, Ronald, Dewald and Quewin though. They bring varying degrees of experience to the team, but all of them have something special in their skill sets and that is what we will need on this trip,” Blitzboks coach Philip Snyman.
With the tournament in Hong Kong set to commence from April 5th, the Blitzboks are fully aware of the unforgiving nature of the World Series, where every match demands precision and determination.
As they strive to reclaim their winning form, the team is determined to make their mark on the international stage once again.
Springbok Sevens squad for Hong Kong:
1 Christie Grobbelaar – 18 tournaments, 160 points
2 Ryan Oosthuizen – 48 tournaments, 215 points
3 Impi Visser – 36 tournaments, 190 points
4 Zain Davids – 46 tournaments, 205 points
7 Ronald Brown – 16 tournaments, 377 points
8 Selvyn Davids (captain) – 34 tournaments, 643 points
9 Shaun Williams – 15 tournaments, 140 points
10 Dewald Human – 23 tournaments, 253 points
12 Shilton van Wyk – 18 tournaments, 165 points
21 Darren Adonis – 13 tournaments, 66 points
23 Justin Geduld – 58 tournaments, 1119 points
30 Quewin Nortje – 3 tournaments, 45 points
35 Katlego Letebele – 5 tournaments, 0 points
Source: SA Rugby
