Demi Hayes is making a much-anticipated comeback from injury in the upcoming opening round of the 2024/2025 HSBC Sevens World Series in Dubai, set to take place from November 30. Australian coaches Tim Walsh and Liam Barry have unveiled their squads for this season’s kickoff, which feature several fresh faces following the recent Paris Olympics.
Walsh remains at the helm of the Women’s team, while Barry steps in as Head Coach for the Men’s side after the exit of John Manenti. Hayes’ inclusion is particularly notable as she returns after enduring a lengthy recovery from an ACL injury that sidelined her for nearly a year.
In addition to Hayes, Kahli Henwood is poised to make her official Sevens series debut after being called up to the Olympic team in July. Kiiahla Duff will also join the squad in place of Bienne Terita, who is nursing an injury. The Women’s team is the reigning world champions, having secured the title in June in Madrid.
The squad is a blend of youth and experience, featuring stars like Charlotte Caslick and the Levi sisters, both of whom have shown outstanding form in previous seasons. Several players are on the comeback trail from knee injuries, while retired legends Sharni Smale and Dominique Du Toit have paved the way for new talents like Henwood, Duff, and Amahli Hala.
Coach Walsh shared his thoughts on the preparations, emphasizing the balance between elite standards and a positive team culture. He expressed confidence in the team’s potential, looking to uphold their championship legacy as they step into the new season.
On the men’s side, Barry has introduced Aden Ekanayake and Sid Harvey as debutants for the Dubai tournament, reflecting a youthful shift in the squad after significant off-season changes, including the departure of experienced players like captain Nick Malouf and Michael Hooper. Notable returning players such as Henry Hutchison and Hayden Sargeant add a wealth of experience to the team as they aim for a successful start to the season.
As the opening matches approach, the Women’s team will begin their campaign against China, and the Men’s team will face South Africa. The HSBC Sevens World Series matches will be available for viewing live on Stan Sport, offering fans a chance to support both teams in their pursuit of continued success on the global stage.
This season marks an exciting point for Australian rugby, with a robust mix of veterans and newcomers ready to showcase their skills and build on the accomplishments of past seasons. Fans can look forward to witnessing the evolution of the teams as they step into this new chapter.
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