Waisale Serevi, a prominent figure in Sevens rugby, has called for World Rugby to revert to the previous 16-team format of the HSBC Sevens Series rather than the current 12-team model. In an interview, he emphasized that the old format was more beneficial for player development and generated greater excitement among fans.
Previously, the tournament format featured 16 teams divided into four pools, each comprising four teams. This allowed for more matches per team, offering additional exposure, especially for developing nations. With the new format, the competition has been condensed to 12 teams split into three pools, which Serevi claims restricts the number of games each team can play.
Serevi pointed out that the restructuring, which included England, Scotland, and Wales merging into a single Great Britain team, has resulted in fewer participating countries. He noted that teams like Samoa and Canada faced relegation, highlighting the challenges posed by the new promotion and relegation system.
“The 16-team format allowed for more opportunities for teams to compete, which is crucial for their growth,” Serevi stated. He lamented the loss of the excitement that accompanied the previous format, which included additional opportunities for teams to compete through shield, bowl, and plate semi-finals.
Current tournament dynamics see losing quarterfinalists engage in playoff matches based on performance and rankings, a system Serevi believes has diminished the thrill that once characterized Sevens rugby.
While the new format introduces a grand final tournament for the top eight teams to compete for the championship, it does not necessarily reward the team that leads the points table throughout the series—a shift that further alters the competitive landscape of the sport.
New Zealand remains the most accomplished team in the series’ history, having accumulated 14 series titles, while South Africa and Fiji have each won four. Notably, Fiji and New Zealand have consistently excelled, finishing in the top three in 19 instances since the series’ inception.
In summary, Serevi advocates for a return to the 16-team format to enhance the competitive nature and developmental prospects of teams in the HSBC Sevens Series. As the sport evolves, the insights from seasoned players like Serevi could be vital in shaping the future of Sevens rugby.
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