The All Blacks Sevens team has been named ahead of the next legs of the HSBC Sevens World Series scheduled for Los Angeles next weekend and Vancouver seven days later.
The team selected for the upcoming rounds in the USA and Canada will feature the return of Moses Leo and the potential All Blacks Sevens debut of Fehi Fineanganofo. These are the only two changes to the team that won the HSBC Sydney Sevens in January.
According to All Blacks Sevens Head Coach Clark Laidlaw, the team is aiming to maintain consistency in the next two tournaments.
“We have enjoyed our time back on home soil and have worked hard to put ourselves in good stead for the next couple of weeks on the road. There was a lot to like in how we performed in Hamilton and Sydney, now our job as a team is to build on that and demonstrate consistency in our performances.”
“Dylan has been an integral part of this team for several years now. Having been involved in Olympics, Commonwealth Games and World Cups, he offers a huge amount of experience, knowledge both on and off the field and has become a genuine leader in the team. We look forward to joining him in celebrating this achievement.”
Collier said he was privileged to reach 50 tournaments in the black jersey.
“I am honoured to be able to be in this position to join the other lads in achieving this milestone. To be able to pull on the All Blacks Sevens jersey is a privilege, and I am grateful for the opportunities it has provided me. However, this wouldn’t be possible, without the support of my partner, kids, and family,” said Collier.
Laidlaw concluded recognising the opportunity for Fineanganofo.
“Fehi, is a phenomenal talent, he has an amazing story around his journey to this point with a bright future ahead of him. We are fortunate to be able to have these young men in our system and provide them these opportunities. This leg of the World Series will be a great chance for him to further develop as a player and to be exposed to the fast pace of international sevens,” said Laidlaw.
The All Blacks Sevens team is:
2 Brady Rush
4 Akuila Rokolisoa
5 Dylan Collier (50th Tournament)
6 Ngarohi McGarvey-Black
7 Sam Dickson (Captain)
9 Amanaki Nicole
11 Joe Webber
12 Leroy Carter
13 Moses Leo
23 Lewis Ormond
33 Fehi Fineanganofo
44 Roderick Solo
74 Payton Spencer
