Demi Hayes is making a highly anticipated comeback from injury as the Australian Sevens teams gear up for the 2024/2025 HSBC SVNS series opening round in Dubai starting November 30. Australian coaches Tim Walsh and Liam Barry have announced fresh squads reflecting changes following the recent Paris Olympics.
Walsh continues to lead the Women’s team, while Barry steps in as the new Head Coach for the Men’s side after John Manenti’s departure. Hayes, who has been recovering from an ACL injury sustained in Cape Town last year, is a notable inclusion in the Women’s squad after nearly a year out of action.
The roster also features Kahli Henwood, who will officially debut in the Sevens series after being called up late to the Olympic squad. Kiiahla Duff joins the team in place of Bienne Terita, who is sidelined with an injury. As reigning HSBC SVNS world champions, the Australian Women’s team is eager to continue their winning momentum.
The team boasts a balanced mix of veteran experience and youthful ambition, led by stars like Charlotte Caslick and the Levi sisters, Maddison and Teagan. Injured players Madison Ashby, Alysia Lefau-Fakaosilea, Kaitlin Shave, and Sidney Taylor are making progress in their recovery.
The offseason saw retired legends Sharni Smale and Dominique Du Toit depart, creating opportunities for new talents like Henwood and Duff. Walsh expressed excitement about the pre-season and the potential of this youthful squad, emphasizing their desire to improve and build on last season’s success.
On the men’s side, new coach Barry has included Aden Ekanayake and Sid Harvey for their debuts as the team prepares to integrate younger players following the retirement of key figures such as Nick Malouf and Michael Hooper. Barry’s focus on nurturing young talent bodes well for the squad’s future.
The Women’s team will kick off against China, while the Men’s team faces South Africa in their opening pool matches. Fans can look forward to watching all matches live and ad-free on Stan Sport.
This season presents a fresh chapter for Australian Sevens rugby, with various players on the brink of new beginnings. With a blend of seasoned players and enthusiastic newcomers, there is a strong sense of optimism and potential for both teams as they look to build on their previous successes.
In summary, the upcoming tournament is poised to showcase not only the returns and debuts of talents but also the resilience and evolving nature of Australian rugby at the Sevens level.
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