Demi Hayes is poised to make her much-anticipated return from injury as four players are set to earn their Australian Sevens debuts during the opening round of the 2024/2025 HSBC Sevens World Series in Dubai, starting November 30.
Australian head coaches Tim Walsh and Liam Barry have revealed their squads for the inaugural tournament of the new season, introducing fresh line-ups following the Paris Olympics. Walsh remains at the helm of the Women’s team, while Barry steps in as Head Coach of the Men’s side after John Manenti’s departure.
Hayes, who has been sidelined for nearly a year due to an ACL injury sustained in Cape Town last year, is excited to rejoin the squad. Alongside her, Kahli Henwood has been named for her official Sevens series debut after being a late addition to the Olympic team in July. Kiiahla Duff replaces the injured Bienne Terita, who will not participate in the tournament.
The Australian Women’s team enters the series as the reigning HSBC Sevens World Series champions, having clinched the title in Madrid last June. The squad boasts a robust blend of youth and experience, highlighted by stalwarts Charlotte Caslick and the Levi sisters, Maddison and Teagan, both of whom had outstanding seasons.
Meanwhile, several players such as Madison Ashby, Alysia Lefau-Fakaosilea, Kaitlin Shave, and Sidney Taylor are on the road to recovery from knee injuries sustained earlier this year. Their absences have granted opportunities for talents like Bridget Clark, Ruby Nicholas, and Heidi Dennis to shine on the international stage.
As the Women’s team prepares for the competition, coach Tim Walsh expressed optimism about the upcoming season: “We have fostered a rejuvenating pre-season filled with elite standards and positive attitudes. Our goal is to continue our championship-winning momentum.”
On the Men’s side, newly appointed coach Barry has included Aden Ekanayake and Sid Harvey as they gear up for their Sevens debuts in Dubai. The squad has undergone significant changes with recent retirements, including those of captain Nick Malouf and former Wallabies captain Michael Hooper, leading Barry to mentor a younger team.
Experience remains key, as players like Henry Hutchison and Matt Gonzalez continue to contribute to the squad’s depth, while new talents have joined to fill the roster.
With both teams ready to hit the field, the Australian Women will first face China, while the Men will take on South Africa. All matches from the HSBC Sevens World Series will be broadcast live and ad-free on Stan Sport.
In summary, both the Australian Men’s and Women’s Sevens teams are entering a new phase filled with fresh talent and returning players. This season could be a pivotal moment for the squads as they aim to build on previous successes and foster new athletic prowess.
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