Demi Hayes is poised to make her much-anticipated return from injury as four players are set to debut for the Australian Sevens teams in the opening round of the 2024/2025 HSBC SVNS series in Dubai, starting November 30.
Australian coaches Tim Walsh and Liam Barry have announced their squads for this inaugural tournament of the season, which features revamped teams following the Paris Olympics. Walsh continues to coach the Women’s team, while Barry takes over as Head Coach of the Men’s team after the departure of John Manenti.
After nearly a year of recovery from an ACL injury sustained in Cape Town, Hayes is ready to rejoin Walsh’s side. Kahli Henwood has also been named for her official Sevens series debut, despite a late call-up to the Olympic team in July. Kiiahla Duff will replace Bienne Terita, who is sidelined due to injury.
The Australian Women are the reigning world champions after their triumph in Madrid last June. The squad showcases a mix of youth and experience, with Charlotte Caslick and siblings Maddison and Teagan Levi leading the way after impressive performances last season. Injured players Madison Ashby, Alysia Lefau-Fakaosilea, Kaitlin Shave, and Sidney Taylor are on the road to recovery after their knee injuries.
Retiring veterans Sharni Smale and Dominique Du Toit have set the stage for newcomers like Henwood, Duff, and Amahli Hala to step into the program. Walsh expressed excitement over the upcoming season, highlighting the team’s rejuvenation and commitment to building on their championship legacy.
For the Men’s side, Barry has enlisted Aden Ekanayake and Sid Harvey for their first appearances in the Australian Rugby Sevens after a successful Olympic campaign. The team will move forward with a younger roster following the retirements of captain Nick Malouf and former Wallabies captain Michael Hooper. Experienced players such as Henry Hutchison and Hayden Sargeant return, contributing to the team’s continuity and strength.
As both teams prepare to kick off in Dubai, fans can look forward to a blend of fresh talent and seasoned players competing for success on the international stage. The Women’s team will face China, while the Men’s team takes on South Africa in their opening matches.
In a positive light, the inclusion of debutants alongside experienced players signifies a healthy blend of tradition and innovation within Australian rugby, promising exciting developments in the sport for the upcoming season.
The match schedule reveals the following fixtures:
POOL A – AUSTRALIA WOMEN
– November 30: Australia vs. China
– November 30: Australia vs. Fiji
– December 1: Australia vs. Ireland
POOL A – AUSTRALIA MEN
– November 30: Australia vs. South Africa
– November 30: Australia vs. France
– December 1: Australia vs. Kenya
This new season presents an exciting opportunity for the teams to showcase their talent and determination, setting the stage for an engaging series of matches ahead.
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