Blitzboks ready to make amends in Dubai

Brits was speaking from the Stellenbosch Academy of Sport, where the Springbok Sevens squad has assembled for their final training block ahead of the Emirates Dubai Sevens on 29–30 November.

He says the goal this year is simple: lift the cup in Dubai.

"What we look forward to go and achieve, is to rectify last season's result. I know Dubai has always been a tournament the Blitzboks have done well in, but last year we got stuck. This year we want to rectify that," emphasised Brits.

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The defending World Champions face a tough pool in Dubai, coming up against Olympic gold and silver medalists Fiji and France, as well as Argentina, who topped the HSBC SVNS standings last season.

Brits says preparations have gone well and the team intends to deliver a high-intensity performance and stay true to the traditional Blitzbok brand.

The Blitzboks sharpened up in the local Fast Forward Sevens tournament in Stellenbosch before shifting into their Dubai preparation camp.

Springbok Sevens head coach Philip Snyman says he is satisfied with the squad’s progress during the HSBC SVNS pre-season and believes they are building well toward the opening tournament.

Snyman says his current challenge is selecting the right combinations for the season opener, especially with several new players putting their hands up for selection.

He says it is a “good problem to have” as competition for places intensifies.

"We have quite a lot of players who are ready to play now, and part of our goal this season is to get the youngsters used to this level.

"The more competitive we can be on the training field, where we often talk about competitive excellence, the stronger we will be during tournaments."

After Dubai, the Blitzboks return home to Cape Town as defending champions of the HSBC SVNS Cape Town tournament at DHL Stadium.

The local event takes place on 6 and 7 December.