The opening round of the HSBC World SVNS Series in Dubai has set an early tone for the 2025/26 campaign, with New Zealand asserting dominance in both the men’s and women’s competitions.
New Zealand top the men’s table with 20 points, having lifted the Dubai 7s title. Their smooth start puts them in prime position heading into Cape Town.
Australia follow closely in second place with 18 points after a strong run to the final, while Fiji sit third on 16 points to complete the early podium.
France hold fourth with 14 points, South Africa are fifth on 12, and Spain sit sixth after collecting 10 points. Great Britain (8th) and Argentina (6th) complete the top eight.
2025/26 World SVNs Series standings after round 1. PHOTO/HSBC
The script was similar in the women’s category, where New Zealand also kicked off their title defence with a win to secure 20 points and top the standings.
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Australia sit second with 18 points, keeping the pressure on their rivals, while Japan impressed with a semifinal finish to claim third place on 16 points.
Fiji are fourth with 14 points, USA fifth on 12, and Canada sixth after picking up 10 points. France (8 points) and Great Britain (6 points) round off the top eight.
2025/26 World SVNs Series standings after round 1. PHOTO/HSBC
