When I interviewed Blitzbok star Rosko Specman ahead of last weekend's Dubai Sevens, I could tell that something had changed.
When I interviewed Blitzbok star Rosko Specman ahead of last weekend's Dubai Sevens, I could tell that something had changed.
A strikingly modest man by nature, Specman was remarkably confident that due to their vast experience, 2016/17 would end with the Blitzboks snatching the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series crown from Fiji. I have known him since he was brought back into the fold for last year's Cape Town Sevens, and he has never been one to openly make such bold claims.
However, South Africa's blistering form during their cup victory in Dubai suggests Specman knew exactly what he was talking about. This weekend, on home soil, they have the chance to stretch their lead at the top of the table.
Coach Neil Powell singled out the Blitzboks defence for praise following their 26-14 victory over Fiji in the Dubai final, claiming that they had improved drastically from the opening day of the tournament and shown structural strength.
They are unlikely to be heavily tested against Russia in their opening Saturday encounter (kick-off 12h49). However, the other two teams in the group could pose a more significant threat.
Following their opener, the Blitzboks face the USA, who won the Challenge Trophy in Dubai, at 16h10. They then face Australia – who came fifth last weekend – in the final Saturday fixture at 19h56.
Where Neil Powell's men will go from there on Sunday remains to be seen, but if they show the same confidence and defensive discipline they did in Dubai, they may just repeat last year's feat and go all the way to Cup success. If they can pull it off, the Blitzboks are going to take some catching.
World Series Standings (points):
1. South Africa (22)
2. Fiji (19)
3. England (17)
4. Wales (15)
5. Australia (13)
6. Scotland (12)
7. France (10)
8. New Zealand (10)
9. USA (8)
10. Samoa (7)
11. Argentina (5)
12. Kenya (5)
13. Canada (3)
14. Uganda (2)
15. Japan (1)
16. Russia (1)
