{ "version": "https://jsonfeed.org/version/1.1", "user_comment": "This feed allows you to read the posts from this site in any feed reader that supports the JSON Feed format. To add this feed to your reader, copy the following URL -- https://www.asiarugby.com/category/featured/feed/json/ -- and add it your reader.", "next_url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/category/featured/feed/json/?paged=2", "home_page_url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/category/featured/", "feed_url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/category/featured/feed/json/", "language": "en-US", "title": "Featured Archives - Asia Rugby", "description": "Regional Association of the Governing Body for the Global Game", "items": [ { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=9300", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2023/03/03/hsbc-canada-sevens-set-for-historic-weekend/", "title": "HSBC Canada Sevens set for historic weekend", "content_html": "

The 28 captains gathered on Wednesday on the traditional territory of Tsleil-Waututh Nation ahead of the highly anticipated HSBC Canada Sevens on 3-5 March, which sees the women\u2019s Series join the men for the first time ever at BC Place as the race for Series glory and Olympic qualification heats up.

\n\n

The world\u2019s best men\u2019s and women\u2019s rugby sevens players will return to action in Vancouver this weekend with a three-day event from 3-5 March as the race for HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series glory and the all-important Olympic qualification heats up.

\n

The 28 captains who will do battle for the highly coveted HSBC Canada Sevens crowns gathered on Wednesday on the traditional territory of Tsleil-Waututh Nation as they fine tune their preparations ahead of kick off on Friday.

\n

With the popular event returning to the city for the eighth consecutive year, Canada\u2019s men\u2019s and women\u2019s teams will be looking to put on a show for their fans as they enter the field at the BC Place Stadium.

\n

Canada women’s co-captain Breanne Nicholas said: \u201cWe\u2019re very excited to be playing on our home turf alongside the men. We know what it\u2019s like in Langford, and we\u2019re ready for the hype of Vancouver. Playing alongside the men is not only positive for the growth of rugby in Canada but the growth of women\u2019s sport in Canada.\u201d

\n

However, New Zealand\u2019s Black Ferns Sevens and All Blacks Sevens lead the current Series standings and arrive in confident mood having won the last three women\u2019s events and two men\u2019s events respectively.

\n

This weekend in Vancouver, if New Zealand’s women’s team reaches the cup finals, they will be the second nation to officially qualify for Paris 2024 after France, who have a spot secured as hosts.

\n

Black Ferns women\u2019s captain Sarah Goss said: \u201cIt\u2019s been amazing being in a new city in Canada, we love coming here and to be able to play at BC Place \u2013 we went to the stadium yesterday and had a run around against Canada \u2013 it\u2019s an amazing stadium and we\u2019re looking forward to the weekend.

\n

\u201cI have only seen that [New Zealand can qualify for Paris 2024] in the media and we haven\u2019t actually talked about that as a team. We\u2019re just trying to get better and better as the tournament goes along and we\u2019re very happy with how we\u2019re sitting but we probably won\u2019t be too happy unless we continue that momentum we\u2019ve already built.\u201d

\n

The 2023 Series is shaping up to be the most competitive in history with the prize of Olympic Games Paris 2024 qualification on offer for the top four women\u2019s and men\u2019s teams in the 2023 Series standings, while hosts France have pre-qualified for next year’s pinnacle event in the nation\u2019s capital.

\n

The men\u2019s Series has seen five different gold medal winners (Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, Samoa and South Africa) in the six rounds to date.

\n

New Zealand sit firmly on top of the women’s leader board with 78 points, having won the last three tournaments in Sydney, Hamilton and Cape Town. Australia, the only other nation to have won a tournament in Dubai, are tied with USA at 66 points each. The Americans join New Zealand as the only nation to have medalled at every event this season, while France picked up their first bronze medal in Sydney.

\n

VIEW MEN\u2019S SERIES STANDINGS >>

\n

VIEW WOMEN\u2019S SERIES STANDINGS >>

\n

The stakes couldn\u2019t be higher at the bottom end of the men\u2019s Series this season as well. Following the penultimate event in Toulouse, the 15th ranked team will be relegated to the 2024 Sevens Challenger Series while the 12th through 14th ranked teams will face off against the Sevens Challenger Series 2023 winner for the 12th and final position on the 2024 Series.

\n

Ireland captain Harry McNulty said: \u201cBack-to-back tournaments are always tough, and with the three-day tournament it means one less training day, but we love coming to Vancouver \u2013 it\u2019s always a great crowd so we\u2019re excited to push on from last week. For us it was great to get three wins in the pool but disappointing to not win anything on day two, so we\u2019re really looking forward to putting in another good performance this weekend.

\n

\u201cEvery tournament you have to take into consideration how hard the pools are because it\u2019s been crazy at the moment when there\u2019s nine teams who can qualify for the four Olympic spots at the end of the season. So we\u2019re going tournament-to-tournament in terms of getting our preparation right but also every tournament means you\u2019re one step closer to the end of the season so we need to make sure we get the most amount of points as we can.\u201d

\n

The men\u2019s pools for Vancouver have HSBC Los Angeles winners New Zealand in Pool A alongside Cape Town champions Samoa, Spain and the United States. Pool B includes silver medal winners Argentina with South Africa France and Japan. Bronze medal winners Fiji will meet Great Britain, Uruguay and Kenya in Pool C, while Australia lead Pool D alongside Ireland, Canada and Chile.

\n

VIEW MEN\u2019S MATCH SCHEDULE >>

\n

The women\u2019s pools for Vancouver have New Zealand, Fiji, Great Britain and Colombia in Pool A. Reigning Series champions Australia will be looking to bounce back in Pool B against France, Japan and Spain. Pool C sees the USA together with Ireland, hosts Canada and Brazil.

\n

VIEW WOMEN\u2019S MATCH SCHEDULE >>

\n

The action begins at 09:15 local time (GMT-8) on Friday, beginning three days of action-packed world-class rugby sevens, which concludes with the finals on Sunday evening.

\n

Tickets for the HSBC Canada Sevens are available from\u00a0Home – Canada Sevens

\n

Rugby sevens fans around the world can watch the action via live stream on World Rugby digital platforms including\u00a0www.world.rugby, YouTube and Facebook in countries where there is no national broadcaster covering the event.

\n

WHERE TO WATCH >>

\n

The post HSBC Canada Sevens set for historic weekend appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "The 28 captains gathered on Wednesday on the traditional territory of Tsleil-Waututh Nation ahead of the highly anticipated HSBC Canada Sevens on 3-5 March, which sees the women\u2019s Series join the men for the first time ever at BC Place as the race for Series glory and Olympic qualification heats up.\n\nThe HSBC Canada Sevens gets underway 3-5 March, marking the 200th men’s tournament in HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series storied history\nFor the first time ever, the top 12 women\u2019s nations are set to join the men at BC Place for a thrilling three-day competition\nNew Zealand Black Ferns Sevens lead current women\u2019s Series standings, can officially qualify for Paris 2024 this weekend\nNew Zealand All Blacks Sevens sit atop the men\u2019s Series standings having won back-to-back stops in Sydney and Los Angeles\nThe HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series 2023 is the most competitive in history with Paris 2024 Olympic qualification the prize for the top four teams\nPlay begins at 09:15 local time (GMT-8) on Friday, with the finals on Sunday\n\nThe world\u2019s best men\u2019s and women\u2019s rugby sevens players will return to action in Vancouver this weekend with a three-day event from 3-5 March as the race for HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series glory and the all-important Olympic qualification heats up.\nThe 28 captains who will do battle for the highly coveted HSBC Canada Sevens crowns gathered on Wednesday on the traditional territory of Tsleil-Waututh Nation as they fine tune their preparations ahead of kick off on Friday.\nWith the popular event returning to the city for the eighth consecutive year, Canada\u2019s men\u2019s and women\u2019s teams will be looking to put on a show for their fans as they enter the field at the BC Place Stadium.\nCanada women’s co-captain Breanne Nicholas said: \u201cWe\u2019re very excited to be playing on our home turf alongside the men. We know what it\u2019s like in Langford, and we\u2019re ready for the hype of Vancouver. Playing alongside the men is not only positive for the growth of rugby in Canada but the growth of women\u2019s sport in Canada.\u201d\nHowever, New Zealand\u2019s Black Ferns Sevens and All Blacks Sevens lead the current Series standings and arrive in confident mood having won the last three women\u2019s events and two men\u2019s events respectively.\nThis weekend in Vancouver, if New Zealand’s women’s team reaches the cup finals, they will be the second nation to officially qualify for Paris 2024 after France, who have a spot secured as hosts.\nBlack Ferns women\u2019s captain Sarah Goss said: \u201cIt\u2019s been amazing being in a new city in Canada, we love coming here and to be able to play at BC Place \u2013 we went to the stadium yesterday and had a run around against Canada \u2013 it\u2019s an amazing stadium and we\u2019re looking forward to the weekend.\n\u201cI have only seen that [New Zealand can qualify for Paris 2024] in the media and we haven\u2019t actually talked about that as a team. We\u2019re just trying to get better and better as the tournament goes along and we\u2019re very happy with how we\u2019re sitting but we probably won\u2019t be too happy unless we continue that momentum we\u2019ve already built.\u201d\nThe 2023 Series is shaping up to be the most competitive in history with the prize of Olympic Games Paris 2024 qualification on offer for the top four women\u2019s and men\u2019s teams in the 2023 Series standings, while hosts France have pre-qualified for next year’s pinnacle event in the nation\u2019s capital.\nThe men\u2019s Series has seen five different gold medal winners (Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, Samoa and South Africa) in the six rounds to date.\nNew Zealand sit firmly on top of the women’s leader board with 78 points, having won the last three tournaments in Sydney, Hamilton and Cape Town. Australia, the only other nation to have won a tournament in Dubai, are tied with USA at 66 points each. The Americans join New Zealand as the only nation to have medalled at every event this season, while France picked up their first bronze medal in Sydney.\nVIEW MEN\u2019S SERIES STANDINGS >>\nVIEW WOMEN\u2019S SERIES STANDINGS >>\nThe stakes couldn\u2019t be higher at the bottom end of the men\u2019s Series this season as well. Following the penultimate event in Toulouse, the 15th ranked team will be relegated to the 2024 Sevens Challenger Series while the 12th through 14th ranked teams will face off against the Sevens Challenger Series 2023 winner for the 12th and final position on the 2024 Series.\nIreland captain Harry McNulty said: \u201cBack-to-back tournaments are always tough, and with the three-day tournament it means one less training day, but we love coming to Vancouver \u2013 it\u2019s always a great crowd so we\u2019re excited to push on from last week. For us it was great to get three wins in the pool but disappointing to not win anything on day two, so we\u2019re really looking forward to putting in another good performance this weekend.\n\u201cEvery tournament you have to take into consideration how hard the pools are because it\u2019s been crazy at the moment when there\u2019s nine teams who can qualify for the four Olympic spots at the end of the season. So we\u2019re going tournament-to-tournament in terms of getting our preparation right but also every tournament means you\u2019re one step closer to the end of the season so we need to make sure we get the most amount of points as we can.\u201d\nThe men\u2019s pools for Vancouver have HSBC Los Angeles winners New Zealand in Pool A alongside Cape Town champions Samoa, Spain and the United States. Pool B includes silver medal winners Argentina with South Africa France and Japan. Bronze medal winners Fiji will meet Great Britain, Uruguay and Kenya in Pool C, while Australia lead Pool D alongside Ireland, Canada and Chile.\nVIEW MEN\u2019S MATCH SCHEDULE >>\nThe women\u2019s pools for Vancouver have New Zealand, Fiji, Great Britain and Colombia in Pool A. Reigning Series champions Australia will be looking to bounce back in Pool B against France, Japan and Spain. Pool C sees the USA together with Ireland, hosts Canada and Brazil.\nVIEW WOMEN\u2019S MATCH SCHEDULE >>\nThe action begins at 09:15 local time (GMT-8) on Friday, beginning three days of action-packed world-class rugby sevens, which concludes with the finals on Sunday evening.\nTickets for the HSBC Canada Sevens are available from\u00a0Home – Canada Sevens\nRugby sevens fans around the world can watch the action via live stream on World Rugby digital platforms including\u00a0www.world.rugby, YouTube and Facebook in countries where there is no national broadcaster covering the event.\nWHERE TO WATCH >>\nThe post HSBC Canada Sevens set for historic weekend appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2023-03-03T17:58:34+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-03-03T17:58:34+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Fiji.jpg", "tags": [ "HSBC", "New Zealand Rugby", "Fiji Rugby", "Tsleil-Waututh", "HSBC Canada Sevens", "Featured", "News" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=9298", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2023/03/03/hsbc-world-rugby-sevens-series-hits-major-milestone/", "title": "HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series hits major milestone", "content_html": "

The HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series will celebrate a special milestone this weekend with the HSBC Canada Sevens in Vancouver being the 200th men\u2019s tournament in the competition\u2019s storied history. We take a look at how the competition has evolved.

\n

On 2 December, 1999 the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series was born in Dubai.

\n

Fittingly, current men\u2019s Series leaders New Zealand had the honour of competing in the very first match and former sevens star turned World Rugby commentator Karl Te Nana scored in a 14-0 win against Tonga.

\n

To this day, Te Nana remembers the thrill of being involved from the very first blast of Australian referee George Ayoub\u2019s whistle.

\n

\u201cWhen the Series first launched, there was so much excitement amongst all the countries to have an organised series created,\u201d he said.

\n

\u201cThe chance to continuously match yourself against the best in the world in 10 tournaments was a real new and fresh concept that both players and fans gravitated to.\u201d

\n

Dubai is one of the two original venues still used to this day (Hong Kong is the other) and was also the location for the opening tournament when the women\u2019s Series was launched in 2012-13.

\n
\n

We go again in Vancouver! \"\ud83c\udde8\ud83c\udde6\"

\n

\"\ud83d\udcc6\" 3-5 March

\n

\"\ud83c\udf9f\" Get your tickets to #Canada7s: https://t.co/deBxy6tqyi#HSBC7s pic.twitter.com/CjDVjTF5nh

\n

\u2014 World Rugby 7s (@WorldRugby7s) February 28, 2023

\n

\n

For Te Nana, it was a natural choice as the launchpad for the Series because it was already a renowned sevens destination.

\n

\u201cThe first tournament in Dubai was always a vibe because of its already established history. It was like playing in a major at golf,\u201d he said.

\n

\u201cSo when New Zealand had the honour to play the first game of the Series against Tonga, we as a team knew the significance of that, and for me to score the first try ever on the World Sevens Series, at the time I didn’t take much notice but now as I look back, I’m very proud of that moment.\u201d

\n

New Zealand went on to be crowned champions in that first tournament in Dubai following a 38-14 win over Fiji, another of the sport\u2019s powerhouses long before the Series was initiated.

\n

SOUTHERN DOMINANCE

\n

A fierce rivalry had already developed between the countries from the first two editions of Rugby World Cup Sevens in 1993 and 1997 and that was translated into the Series.

\n

Those two countries claimed all the titles on offer between them throughout the inaugural Series and, by the end of it all, the All Blacks Sevens came out on top in the final standings by just six points.

\n

It was the first of six consecutive overall Series titles for New Zealand, who won just over half (26) of the first 50 tournaments played.

\n

Of the 30 different nations that have played and scored in the Series, New Zealand and Fiji are to date the only ones to reach 3,000 points.

\n

Fiji became Series champions for the first time in 2005-06 but it was still New Zealand who largely held the upper hand as the Series continued to grow, their run of seven consecutive tournament wins between London in 2007 to Hong Kong the following year being a record that still exists today.

\n

BLITZBOKS\u2019 BREAKTHROUGH

\n

2009 was not only a significant year for sevens in terms of it winning the vote to become an Olympic sport but it also marked the emergence of South Africa as a threat to New Zealand and Fiji, the Blitzboks claiming the first of their four Series titles that year.

\n

Samoa threw their hat into the ring by taking the next title in 2010 and England were always a threat with record Series points scorer Ben Gollings dictating play. But for the most part, it was New Zealand, Fiji and South Africa who continued to fight it out for top honours.

\n

The next 11 Series titles, from 2011 to 2021, were shared by the southern hemisphere trio with New Zealand claiming five, and Fiji and South Africa three apiece, the latter benefitting from the absence of their main rivals due to COVID-19 in their 2021 Series win.

\n

For a 10-year period between 2004 and 2014, that trio and England, Samoa, Argentina, Australia and France were the only teams to win a tournament in the Series.

\n

But as sevens\u2019 Olympics debut in Rio in 2016 drew ever closer new teams came to the fore with the USA enjoying the first of their three tournament successes in London in the 2014-15 Series. Over the next two years, they were joined by Scotland and Canada in adding their names to the roll of honour.

\n

In total, 12 different teams have now won a tournament in the Series.

\n

With the general competitiveness of sevens going up several notches following the sport\u2019s inclusion in the Olympic Games, New Zealand\u2019s almost total dominance from those early years will be very hard to replicate.

\n

But while Australia became the first new overall Series winner in 12 years in 2022, the All Blacks Sevens remain the team to beat in most people\u2019s eyes.

\n

Their overall tally of 64 tournament wins, and 100-plus \u00a0final appearances, from the 199 men\u2019s tournaments played to date easily eclipses what any of the other teams can muster.

\n

Fiji are next best with 44 tournament wins and South Africa are third on 40.

\n

A SHOWCASE FOR SKILLS

\n

Once considered a means of improving fitness for 15s or for an end-of-season jamboree, sevens has become huge in its own right and the Series has played a big part in its evolution into an Olympic sport that helps spread the rugby gospel far and wide.

\n

Ever-evolving, the Series will be remodelled next year and will include seven festival-style events, in seven iconic global destinations, across seven months, featuring the 12 best men\u2019s and women\u2019s teams in the world.

\n

Te Nana was one of the first to leave his mark on the Series and is still taken aback by how big and far-reaching it has become.

\n

\u201cIt’s amazing how from the inception to what the beast of a product and spectacle the sevens has become. It is just amazing,\u201d he said.

\n

\u201cWorld Rugby have done a fantastic job creating a platform for men\u2019s and women\u2019s teams and athletes to thrive and showcase their abilities to help connect, inspire and bring joy to audiences across the globe.\u201d

\n

The post HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series hits major milestone appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "The HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series will celebrate a special milestone this weekend with the HSBC Canada Sevens in Vancouver being the 200th men\u2019s tournament in the competition\u2019s storied history. We take a look at how the competition has evolved.\nOn 2 December, 1999 the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series was born in Dubai.\nFittingly, current men\u2019s Series leaders New Zealand had the honour of competing in the very first match and former sevens star turned World Rugby commentator Karl Te Nana scored in a 14-0 win against Tonga.\nTo this day, Te Nana remembers the thrill of being involved from the very first blast of Australian referee George Ayoub\u2019s whistle.\n\u201cWhen the Series first launched, there was so much excitement amongst all the countries to have an organised series created,\u201d he said.\n\u201cThe chance to continuously match yourself against the best in the world in 10 tournaments was a real new and fresh concept that both players and fans gravitated to.\u201d\nDubai is one of the two original venues still used to this day (Hong Kong is the other) and was also the location for the opening tournament when the women\u2019s Series was launched in 2012-13.\n\nWe go again in Vancouver! \n 3-5 March\n Get your tickets to #Canada7s: https://t.co/deBxy6tqyi#HSBC7s pic.twitter.com/CjDVjTF5nh\n\u2014 World Rugby 7s (@WorldRugby7s) February 28, 2023\n\nFor Te Nana, it was a natural choice as the launchpad for the Series because it was already a renowned sevens destination.\n\u201cThe first tournament in Dubai was always a vibe because of its already established history. It was like playing in a major at golf,\u201d he said.\n\u201cSo when New Zealand had the honour to play the first game of the Series against Tonga, we as a team knew the significance of that, and for me to score the first try ever on the World Sevens Series, at the time I didn’t take much notice but now as I look back, I’m very proud of that moment.\u201d\nNew Zealand went on to be crowned champions in that first tournament in Dubai following a 38-14 win over Fiji, another of the sport\u2019s powerhouses long before the Series was initiated.\nSOUTHERN DOMINANCE\nA fierce rivalry had already developed between the countries from the first two editions of Rugby World Cup Sevens in 1993 and 1997 and that was translated into the Series.\nThose two countries claimed all the titles on offer between them throughout the inaugural Series and, by the end of it all, the All Blacks Sevens came out on top in the final standings by just six points.\nIt was the first of six consecutive overall Series titles for New Zealand, who won just over half (26) of the first 50 tournaments played.\nOf the 30 different nations that have played and scored in the Series, New Zealand and Fiji are to date the only ones to reach 3,000 points.\nFiji became Series champions for the first time in 2005-06 but it was still New Zealand who largely held the upper hand as the Series continued to grow, their run of seven consecutive tournament wins between London in 2007 to Hong Kong the following year being a record that still exists today.\nBLITZBOKS\u2019 BREAKTHROUGH\n2009 was not only a significant year for sevens in terms of it winning the vote to become an Olympic sport but it also marked the emergence of South Africa as a threat to New Zealand and Fiji, the Blitzboks claiming the first of their four Series titles that year.\nSamoa threw their hat into the ring by taking the next title in 2010 and England were always a threat with record Series points scorer Ben Gollings dictating play. But for the most part, it was New Zealand, Fiji and South Africa who continued to fight it out for top honours.\nThe next 11 Series titles, from 2011 to 2021, were shared by the southern hemisphere trio with New Zealand claiming five, and Fiji and South Africa three apiece, the latter benefitting from the absence of their main rivals due to COVID-19 in their 2021 Series win.\nFor a 10-year period between 2004 and 2014, that trio and England, Samoa, Argentina, Australia and France were the only teams to win a tournament in the Series.\nBut as sevens\u2019 Olympics debut in Rio in 2016 drew ever closer new teams came to the fore with the USA enjoying the first of their three tournament successes in London in the 2014-15 Series. Over the next two years, they were joined by Scotland and Canada in adding their names to the roll of honour.\nIn total, 12 different teams have now won a tournament in the Series.\nWith the general competitiveness of sevens going up several notches following the sport\u2019s inclusion in the Olympic Games, New Zealand\u2019s almost total dominance from those early years will be very hard to replicate.\nBut while Australia became the first new overall Series winner in 12 years in 2022, the All Blacks Sevens remain the team to beat in most people\u2019s eyes.\nTheir overall tally of 64 tournament wins, and 100-plus \u00a0final appearances, from the 199 men\u2019s tournaments played to date easily eclipses what any of the other teams can muster.\nFiji are next best with 44 tournament wins and South Africa are third on 40.\nA SHOWCASE FOR SKILLS\nOnce considered a means of improving fitness for 15s or for an end-of-season jamboree, sevens has become huge in its own right and the Series has played a big part in its evolution into an Olympic sport that helps spread the rugby gospel far and wide.\nEver-evolving, the Series will be remodelled next year and will include seven festival-style events, in seven iconic global destinations, across seven months, featuring the 12 best men\u2019s and women\u2019s teams in the world.\nTe Nana was one of the first to leave his mark on the Series and is still taken aback by how big and far-reaching it has become.\n\u201cIt’s amazing how from the inception to what the beast of a product and spectacle the sevens has become. It is just amazing,\u201d he said.\n\u201cWorld Rugby have done a fantastic job creating a platform for men\u2019s and women\u2019s teams and athletes to thrive and showcase their abilities to help connect, inspire and bring joy to audiences across the globe.\u201d\nThe post HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series hits major milestone appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2023-03-03T17:46:32+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-03-03T17:46:32+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/HSBC-World-Rugby-Sevens.jpg", "tags": [ "HSBC Canada Sevens", "HSBC", "World Rugby Sevens", "HSBC World Rugby Sevens", "Featured", "News" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=9292", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2023/02/24/hsbc-los-angeles-sevens-ready-for-action/", "title": "HSBC Los Angeles Sevens ready for action", "content_html": "

The 16 captains gathered on Thursday ahead of the highly anticipated HSBC Los Angeles Sevens on 25-26 February, which sees the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series return to Dignity Health Sports Park for the second time in less than six months.

\n

For the second time in less than six months, the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series returns to Los Angeles this weekend with a two-day event from 25-26 February as the race for Series glory and the all-important Olympic qualification heats up.

\n

The 16 men\u2019s team captains who will do battle for the highly coveted HSBC Los Angeles Sevens crown gathered outside Dignity Sports Health Park on Thursday afternoon alongside participants from HSBC\u2019s World of Opportunity Programme.

\n

Related Link:\u00a0Back to Full Schedule, Enthralling Year of Rugby in the Offering: Asia Rugby Releases 2023 Calendar

\n

The 2023 Series is shaping up to be the most competitive in history with the prize of Olympic Games Paris 2024 qualification on offer for the top four women\u2019s and men\u2019s teams in the 2023 Series standings, while hosts France have pre-qualified for next year’s pinnacle event in the nation\u2019s capital.

\n

The Men\u2019s Series has seen nine different teams reach the Cup Semi-Final stage, with all nine nations medaling across the first five tournaments. There have been five different gold medal winners (Australia, Samoa, South Africa, Argentina and New Zealand), four different silver medalists (Fiji, South Africa, Ireland and New Zealand twice) and four bronze medalists (France, New Zealand, Fiji and USA twice).

\n

New Zealand currently sit atop the Series standings with 85 points, followed by South Africa at 76 points and five nations (Samoa, France, Fiji, Argentina and USA) are separated by just two points between 68 and 66 in the race for the final two spots for Paris 2024.

\n

VIEW SERIES STANDINGS >>

\n

The USA will look to use their home field advantage and passionate fans as an added boost when they continue their quest of qualifying for Paris 2024 next year. The Americans have tasted victory twice in front of their home supporters, having won back-to-back cup titles in 2018 and 2019 in Las Vegas before the event moved back to California.

\n

Currently in seventh place on the Series standings, the Eagles have won two bronze medals this year in Cape Town and Hamilton and sit just two points back of a tie for third place in the race for qualification.

\n

USA men\u2019s captain Kevon Williams said: \u201cThe season is at stake this weekend. We\u2019re three points behind third place with the top four qualifying for Paris so this weekend is a real big weekend for us as far as staying in contention for qualifying for the Olympics.

\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve been known in the history that this tournament is our best tournament. Whether it\u2019s been in Las Vegas or Los Angeles we\u2019ve always played well at home. The USA has three cup wins and two of them are on home soil so we play big when it comes here.\u201d

\n

The men\u2019s pool draw for Los Angeles sees Sydney champions New Zealand take their place in Pool A alongside Cape Town champions Samoa, hosts USA and invitational team Chile.

\n

New Zealand men\u2019s captain Sam Dickson said: \u201cWe know how fast the points situation can change. We started in ninth after Hong Kong so we\u2019ve done well to bounce back and get out front but with six tournaments left anything can happen so we\u2019ll be giving it our best this weekend to stay on top.\u201d

\n

Dubai champions South Africa slot into Pool B alongside Ireland, Uruguay and Canada.

\n

Sydney bronze medal winners Fiji lead Pool C and will face off against Hong Kong champions Australia, Kenya and Japan.

\n

France, who currently sit fourth in the Series standings, are joined by Great Britain, Hamilton champions Argentina and Spain in Pool D.

\n

The stakes couldn\u2019t be higher at the bottom end of the men\u2019s Series this season as well. Following the penultimate event in Toulouse, the 15th ranked team will be relegated to the 2024 Sevens Challenger Series while the 12th through 14th ranked teams will face off against the Sevens Challenger Series 2023 winner for the 12th and final position on the 2024 Series.

\n

Canada captain Phil Berna said: \u201cOne good tournament is all you need to get some momentum going and we\u2019ve been telling ourselves not to stress too much about the end of the season so we\u2019ll take it one game and one tournament at a time. We have a job to do here this weekend and we know the better we do this weekend the better position we put ourselves in Vancouver at our home tournament so our focus is on LA.\u201d

\n

VIEW POOLS AND FIXTURES >>

\n

The action gets under way on Saturday at 09:15 local time (GMT-8) when Great Britain takes on Argentina and the final match of day one kicks off at 19:03 with South Africa facing off against Ireland.

\n

Play begins on finals day on Sunday at 08:55 with the 9th\u00a0place quarter-finals and the gold medal final scheduled for 17:28.

\n

Rugby sevens fans around the world can watch the action via live stream on World Rugby digital platforms including\u00a0www.world.rugby, You Tube and Facebook in countries where there is no national broadcaster covering the event.

\n

WHERE TO WATCH >>

\n

As part of the captains\u2019 photo, the captains were interviewed by participants from HSBC\u2019s World of Opportunity Programme, a global initiative from HSBC that gives young people with an interest in working in sport the opportunity to get invaluable insight into sporting careers that lie beyond the field.

\n

The young adults taking part in the programme are all from the LA area and were sourced in partnership with the Todd Clever Foundation. HSBC ambassador and former USA Rugby Sevens international Todd Clever supports communities across America by providing opportunities for athletes, coaches, and teams while instilling the values of the sport. The participants took part in a series of sessions hosted by Clever, HSBC ambassador and USA Rugby Sevens international Abby Gustaitis and World Rugby.

\n

As part of the partnership with the Todd Clever Foundation, there will also be a Donation Wall at the Dignity Health Sports Park, where kit, funds and equipment will be donated towards supporting local rugby clubs and organizations.

\n

Los Angeles will host the 2028 Olympic Games, which will see rugby sevens\u2019 fourth appearance at the Games since the sport\u2019s debut at the Rio 2016 Games.

\n

The post HSBC Los Angeles Sevens ready for action appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "The 16 captains gathered on Thursday ahead of the highly anticipated HSBC Los Angeles Sevens on 25-26 February, which sees the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series return to Dignity Health Sports Park for the second time in less than six months.\nFor the second time in less than six months, the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series returns to Los Angeles this weekend with a two-day event from 25-26 February as the race for Series glory and the all-important Olympic qualification heats up.\nThe 16 men\u2019s team captains who will do battle for the highly coveted HSBC Los Angeles Sevens crown gathered outside Dignity Sports Health Park on Thursday afternoon alongside participants from HSBC\u2019s World of Opportunity Programme.\nRelated Link:\u00a0Back to Full Schedule, Enthralling Year of Rugby in the Offering: Asia Rugby Releases 2023 Calendar\nThe 2023 Series is shaping up to be the most competitive in history with the prize of Olympic Games Paris 2024 qualification on offer for the top four women\u2019s and men\u2019s teams in the 2023 Series standings, while hosts France have pre-qualified for next year’s pinnacle event in the nation\u2019s capital.\nThe Men\u2019s Series has seen nine different teams reach the Cup Semi-Final stage, with all nine nations medaling across the first five tournaments. There have been five different gold medal winners (Australia, Samoa, South Africa, Argentina and New Zealand), four different silver medalists (Fiji, South Africa, Ireland and New Zealand twice) and four bronze medalists (France, New Zealand, Fiji and USA twice).\nNew Zealand currently sit atop the Series standings with 85 points, followed by South Africa at 76 points and five nations (Samoa, France, Fiji, Argentina and USA) are separated by just two points between 68 and 66 in the race for the final two spots for Paris 2024.\nVIEW SERIES STANDINGS >>\nThe USA will look to use their home field advantage and passionate fans as an added boost when they continue their quest of qualifying for Paris 2024 next year. The Americans have tasted victory twice in front of their home supporters, having won back-to-back cup titles in 2018 and 2019 in Las Vegas before the event moved back to California.\nCurrently in seventh place on the Series standings, the Eagles have won two bronze medals this year in Cape Town and Hamilton and sit just two points back of a tie for third place in the race for qualification.\nUSA men\u2019s captain Kevon Williams said: \u201cThe season is at stake this weekend. We\u2019re three points behind third place with the top four qualifying for Paris so this weekend is a real big weekend for us as far as staying in contention for qualifying for the Olympics.\n\u201cWe\u2019ve been known in the history that this tournament is our best tournament. Whether it\u2019s been in Las Vegas or Los Angeles we\u2019ve always played well at home. The USA has three cup wins and two of them are on home soil so we play big when it comes here.\u201d\nThe men\u2019s pool draw for Los Angeles sees Sydney champions New Zealand take their place in Pool A alongside Cape Town champions Samoa, hosts USA and invitational team Chile.\nNew Zealand men\u2019s captain Sam Dickson said: \u201cWe know how fast the points situation can change. We started in ninth after Hong Kong so we\u2019ve done well to bounce back and get out front but with six tournaments left anything can happen so we\u2019ll be giving it our best this weekend to stay on top.\u201d\nDubai champions South Africa slot into Pool B alongside Ireland, Uruguay and Canada.\nSydney bronze medal winners Fiji lead Pool C and will face off against Hong Kong champions Australia, Kenya and Japan.\nFrance, who currently sit fourth in the Series standings, are joined by Great Britain, Hamilton champions Argentina and Spain in Pool D.\nThe stakes couldn\u2019t be higher at the bottom end of the men\u2019s Series this season as well. Following the penultimate event in Toulouse, the 15th ranked team will be relegated to the 2024 Sevens Challenger Series while the 12th through 14th ranked teams will face off against the Sevens Challenger Series 2023 winner for the 12th and final position on the 2024 Series.\nCanada captain Phil Berna said: \u201cOne good tournament is all you need to get some momentum going and we\u2019ve been telling ourselves not to stress too much about the end of the season so we\u2019ll take it one game and one tournament at a time. We have a job to do here this weekend and we know the better we do this weekend the better position we put ourselves in Vancouver at our home tournament so our focus is on LA.\u201d\nVIEW POOLS AND FIXTURES >>\nThe action gets under way on Saturday at 09:15 local time (GMT-8) when Great Britain takes on Argentina and the final match of day one kicks off at 19:03 with South Africa facing off against Ireland.\nPlay begins on finals day on Sunday at 08:55 with the 9th\u00a0place quarter-finals and the gold medal final scheduled for 17:28.\nRugby sevens fans around the world can watch the action via live stream on World Rugby digital platforms including\u00a0www.world.rugby, You Tube and Facebook in countries where there is no national broadcaster covering the event.\nWHERE TO WATCH >>\nAs part of the captains\u2019 photo, the captains were interviewed by participants from HSBC\u2019s World of Opportunity Programme, a global initiative from HSBC that gives young people with an interest in working in sport the opportunity to get invaluable insight into sporting careers that lie beyond the field.\nThe young adults taking part in the programme are all from the LA area and were sourced in partnership with the Todd Clever Foundation. HSBC ambassador and former USA Rugby Sevens international Todd Clever supports communities across America by providing opportunities for athletes, coaches, and teams while instilling the values of the sport. The participants took part in a series of sessions hosted by Clever, HSBC ambassador and USA Rugby Sevens international Abby Gustaitis and World Rugby.\nAs part of the partnership with the Todd Clever Foundation, there will also be a Donation Wall at the Dignity Health Sports Park, where kit, funds and equipment will be donated towards supporting local rugby clubs and organizations.\nLos Angeles will host the 2028 Olympic Games, which will see rugby sevens\u2019 fourth appearance at the Games since the sport\u2019s debut at the Rio 2016 Games.\nThe post HSBC Los Angeles Sevens ready for action appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2023-02-24T14:04:53+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-02-24T14:04:53+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/05I2263-e1677217917121.webp", "tags": [ "Japan", "Featured", "World Rugby" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=9282", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2023/02/11/qatar-rugby-crowned-champions/", "title": "Qatar Crowned Champions of Asia Rugby Division 3 West", "content_html": "

The Qatar Rugby team emerged as champions of Asia Rugby Division 3 West after defeating Iran 40-12 in a thrilling match held at the Al Ain Amblers Rugby Club in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.

\n

\u00a0

\n
\"Qatar
Wade Lotter scored a hat-trick
\n

The Qatar team dominated the game with relentless pressure and a solid performance, with hooker Wade Lotter scoring a hat-trick and playing a crucial role in the victory.

\n


\nAs champions of the regional division, Qatar will now join India and Kazakhstan in the Division 3 Championship playoffs soon. The winner and runner-up of the playoffs will gain promotion to Division 2 and keep their dreams alive of a pathway to the Asia Rugby Championship and further progress to qualification for the Rugby World Cup 2027.

\n
\n

Solidarity and Respect! The least we can offer, one minute silence at Qatar \"\ud83c\uddf6\ud83c\udde6\" vs Iran \"\ud83c\uddee\ud83c\uddf7\" match at @asiarugby Championship Division 3 West played in Al Ain – UAE \"\ud83c\udde6\ud83c\uddea\"

\n

Our prayers and hearts with all victims\u2019 families #Syria #Turkey pic.twitter.com/YUeF9xswHS

\n

— Qais A. Al Dhalai (@QaisUAE) February 10, 2023

\n

\n

During the closing ceremony, a minute of silence was observed to show solidarity with the Syria High Rugby Committee, Turkish Rugby Federation, and everyone affected by the recent devastating earthquakes in Syria and Turkey.

\n


\nAsia Rugby Independent Executive Committee member Trevor Gregory presented the championship trophy to the champions.\u00a0

\n

Man of the match, Wade Lotter from Qatar, spoke to Asia Rugby about the tournament, saying, “There was a long wait for this

\n
\"\"
Ali Yaghooti
\n

tournament to happen and a huge build-up, and everyone was fired up for the game. It was a good game, and I was just fortunate to score the tries, but the credit must go to the team.”

\n

\u00a0Iran also demonstrated impressive character, finishing the game with two outstanding tries by superstar Ali Yaghooti

\n

Related Articles
\nAsia Rugby Appoints Match Officials for Division 3 West\u00a0
\nAsia Rugby season kicks off with Qatar vs Iran Clash \u200e

\n

Asia Rugby Calendar 2023
\nhttps://www.asiarugby.com/calendar-2023/

\n

Watch the full game
\nhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWw24pO_3s8

\n

The post Qatar Crowned Champions of Asia Rugby Division 3 West appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "The Qatar Rugby team emerged as champions of Asia Rugby Division 3 West after defeating Iran 40-12 in a thrilling match held at the Al Ain Amblers Rugby Club in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.\n\u00a0\nWade Lotter scored a hat-trick\nThe Qatar team dominated the game with relentless pressure and a solid performance, with hooker Wade Lotter scoring a hat-trick and playing a crucial role in the victory.\n\nAs champions of the regional division, Qatar will now join India and Kazakhstan in the Division 3 Championship playoffs soon. The winner and runner-up of the playoffs will gain promotion to Division 2 and keep their dreams alive of a pathway to the Asia Rugby Championship and further progress to qualification for the Rugby World Cup 2027.\n\nSolidarity and Respect! The least we can offer, one minute silence at Qatar vs Iran match at @asiarugby Championship Division 3 West played in Al Ain – UAE \nOur prayers and hearts with all victims\u2019 families #Syria #Turkey pic.twitter.com/YUeF9xswHS\n— Qais A. Al Dhalai (@QaisUAE) February 10, 2023\n\nDuring the closing ceremony, a minute of silence was observed to show solidarity with the Syria High Rugby Committee, Turkish Rugby Federation, and everyone affected by the recent devastating earthquakes in Syria and Turkey.\n\nAsia Rugby Independent Executive Committee member Trevor Gregory presented the championship trophy to the champions.\u00a0 \nMan of the match, Wade Lotter from Qatar, spoke to Asia Rugby about the tournament, saying, “There was a long wait for this\nAli Yaghooti\ntournament to happen and a huge build-up, and everyone was fired up for the game. It was a good game, and I was just fortunate to score the tries, but the credit must go to the team.”\n\u00a0Iran also demonstrated impressive character, finishing the game with two outstanding tries by superstar Ali Yaghooti\nRelated Articles\nAsia Rugby Appoints Match Officials for Division 3 West\u00a0\nAsia Rugby season kicks off with Qatar vs Iran Clash \u200e\nAsia Rugby Calendar 2023\nhttps://www.asiarugby.com/calendar-2023/\nWatch the full game\nhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWw24pO_3s8\nThe post Qatar Crowned Champions of Asia Rugby Division 3 West appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2023-02-11T23:01:55+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-02-11T23:01:55+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Qatar.jpg", "tags": [ "Iran", "Qatar", "Featured", "Asia Rugby Championship" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=9275", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2023/02/09/asia-rugby-appoints-match-officials-for-division-3-west/", "title": "Asia Rugby Appoints Match Officials for Division 3 West\u00a0", "content_html": "

-Stakes high as winner stays in contention for Asia Rugby Div 3 crown, promotion to Div 2
\n-Test slated for February 10th in Al Ain, UAE
\n-Mark the date to watch the match in real time on AR\u2019s social media platforms

\n

Asia Rugby has announced the appointment of match officials for the upcoming Asia Rugby Division 3 West match between Iran and Qatar, set to take place\u00a0on Friday, February 10th, in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates who are:

\n\n

\"\"

\n

The appointed match officials have been carefully handpicked by Asia Rugby\u2019s Selections and Appointments Panel, and then ratified by both Asia Rugby Referee\u2019s Committee and the Asia Rugby Interim CEO.

\n

This will be the last match of the Division 3 Regional Championships. The winner will contest the Division 3 Playoff Tournament in March against India and Kazakhstan, who won Divisions 3 South and Central, respectively, in 2022. The Playoff Tournament champion and runners-up will earn a promotion to Division 2 to be played during the period 2nd to 5th May 2023.

\n

Asia Rugby will be live-streaming the match on its Facebook page and YouTube channel, and featuring highlights on its Instagram page.

\n

\u00a0Asia Rugby Division 3 West
\nIran v Qatar
\nLocation: Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
\nDate:\u00a0Friday 10th\u00a0February 2023
\nTime:\u00a019:00\u00a0 (UAE +4 GMT)

\n

\n

 

\n

The post Asia Rugby Appoints Match Officials for Division 3 West\u00a0 appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "-Stakes high as winner stays in contention for Asia Rugby Div 3 crown, promotion to Div 2\n-Test slated for February 10th in Al Ain, UAE\n-Mark the date to watch the match in real time on AR\u2019s social media platforms\nAsia Rugby has announced the appointment of match officials for the upcoming Asia Rugby Division 3 West match between Iran and Qatar, set to take place\u00a0on Friday, February 10th, in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates who are:\n\nGhaith Jalajel, the Asia Rugby Competitions Manager, Will act as Tournament Director.\nJaco De Wit, from the United Arab Emirates Rugby Federation (UAERF), will be the Referee.\nTony Duminy and Azhfar Nor, from UAE Rugby Federation and Malaysia Rugby respectively, will be the Assistant Referees.\nPeter Hudson has been appointed as the Match Officials Performance Reviewer.\nRamesh Lachmanan from Malaysia Rugby will serve as the Judicial Officer\nChris Galea from the Singapore Rugby Union as the Citing Commissioner.\n\n\nThe appointed match officials have been carefully handpicked by Asia Rugby\u2019s Selections and Appointments Panel, and then ratified by both Asia Rugby Referee\u2019s Committee and the Asia Rugby Interim CEO.\nThis will be the last match of the Division 3 Regional Championships. The winner will contest the Division 3 Playoff Tournament in March against India and Kazakhstan, who won Divisions 3 South and Central, respectively, in 2022. The Playoff Tournament champion and runners-up will earn a promotion to Division 2 to be played during the period 2nd to 5th May 2023.\nAsia Rugby will be live-streaming the match on its Facebook page and YouTube channel, and featuring highlights on its Instagram page.\n\u00a0Asia Rugby Division 3 West\nIran v Qatar\nLocation: Al Ain, United Arab Emirates\nDate:\u00a0Friday 10th\u00a0February 2023\nTime:\u00a019:00\u00a0 (UAE +4 GMT)\n\n \nThe post Asia Rugby Appoints Match Officials for Division 3 West\u00a0 appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2023-02-09T08:57:36+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-02-09T14:12:19+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/WhatsApp-Image-2022-04-12-at-5.16.39-PM.jpeg", "tags": [ "Featured", "Asia Rugby Championship", "News", "Match offical" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=9269", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2023/02/04/asia-rugby-grand-league-sees-lights-in-may-2024/", "title": "Asia Rugby Grand League sees lights in May 2024", "content_html": "

The Asia Rugby Grand League (ARGL) is set to launch in May 2024, with leaders from 12 targeted unions joining the consultative meeting held in Singapore yesterday. The meeting was attended by unions\u2019 presidents and CEOs of Singapore, Hong Kong,\u00a0UAE, China, Thailand, South Korea, Chinese Taipei, and Pakistan joining in person and others from Japan, Kazakhstan, Philippines and Malaysia joining virtually.

\n

During the meeting, the concept and initial format of the league were discussed and a high-powered steering committee chaired by Asia Rugby President was formed to take the project forward. The ARGL will gradually increase the number of participating clubs, starting with 4 clubs and ultimately reaching 12 clubs by the Rugby World Cup year 2027 in Australia.

\n
\n

Asia Rugby Grand League is set to launch in 2024. Leaders from 12 unions joined the inaugural hybrid meeting in Singapore. Chaired by Asia Rugby President @QaisUAE.

\n

\"\ud83c\uddf8\ud83c\uddec\" \"\ud83c\udded\ud83c\uddf0\" \"\ud83c\uddf0\ud83c\uddf7\" \"\ud83c\uddf9\ud83c\udded\" \"\ud83c\udde6\ud83c\uddea\" \"\ud83c\uddf0\ud83c\uddff\" \"\ud83c\uddef\ud83c\uddf5\" \"\ud83c\uddf5\ud83c\uddf0\" \"\ud83c\uddf2\ud83c\uddfe\" \"\ud83c\uddf5\ud83c\udded\" (CTP \"\ud83c\udf30\")#AsiaRugby #GrandLeague #WeCanDoBetterButTogether pic.twitter.com/JmabgJyVYh

\n

— Asia Rugby (@asiarugby) February 3, 2023

\n

\n

Asia Rugby President, Qais Al Dhalai shared the vision of the Grand League: “The ARGL has been developed to outline our strategic and key performance goals, leading to a high-performance clubs rugby tournament that will help grow the fifteens aside game in Asia and benefit national teams in the future to compete at a high-performance level.” The league aims to create a world-class club rugby league to ensure a robust, sustainable, and commercially viable future for the game.

\n
\"Grand
Asia Rugby President Qais Al-Dhalai chaired the meeting and was supported by Asia Rugby Deputy President Terrence Khoo and 1st Deputy of the competitions committee Batbayar Purevjargal.
\n

The ARGL promises to bring a new look to rugby competitions in Asia with the use of innovative technology in the likes of artificial intelligence and experimentation with law variations. The league plans to partner with major international and local commercial partners to secure the necessary funding, including broadcasting and media rights, merchandise sales, and other commercial activities.

\n

A comprehensive marketing and promotion campaign will be launched to raise awareness of the tournament and engage fans, with a focus on a strong online presence, social media campaigns, and traditional marketing activities.

\n

The meeting was successful with positive inputs from all attending unions, including a comprehensive presentation by the Hong Kong Rugby Union sharing their experience with past franchise team South China Tigers. Malaysia Rugby and Singapore Rugby unions have also expressed their experiences with Malaysia Valke and Asia Pacific Dragons franchises teams respectively which were playing at the Global Rapid Rugby in 2019 and 2020 before it gets abandoned owing COVID-19 pandemic.

\n
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sMGcQJDT-zU
\n

 

\n

The post Asia Rugby Grand League sees lights in May 2024 appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "The Asia Rugby Grand League (ARGL) is set to launch in May 2024, with leaders from 12 targeted unions joining the consultative meeting held in Singapore yesterday. The meeting was attended by unions\u2019 presidents and CEOs of Singapore, Hong Kong,\u00a0UAE, China, Thailand, South Korea, Chinese Taipei, and Pakistan joining in person and others from Japan, Kazakhstan, Philippines and Malaysia joining virtually.\nDuring the meeting, the concept and initial format of the league were discussed and a high-powered steering committee chaired by Asia Rugby President was formed to take the project forward. The ARGL will gradually increase the number of participating clubs, starting with 4 clubs and ultimately reaching 12 clubs by the Rugby World Cup year 2027 in Australia.\n\nAsia Rugby Grand League is set to launch in 2024. Leaders from 12 unions joined the inaugural hybrid meeting in Singapore. Chaired by Asia Rugby President @QaisUAE.\n (CTP )#AsiaRugby #GrandLeague #WeCanDoBetterButTogether pic.twitter.com/JmabgJyVYh\n— Asia Rugby (@asiarugby) February 3, 2023\n\nAsia Rugby President, Qais Al Dhalai shared the vision of the Grand League: “The ARGL has been developed to outline our strategic and key performance goals, leading to a high-performance clubs rugby tournament that will help grow the fifteens aside game in Asia and benefit national teams in the future to compete at a high-performance level.” The league aims to create a world-class club rugby league to ensure a robust, sustainable, and commercially viable future for the game.\nAsia Rugby President Qais Al-Dhalai chaired the meeting and was supported by Asia Rugby Deputy President Terrence Khoo and 1st Deputy of the competitions committee Batbayar Purevjargal.\nThe ARGL promises to bring a new look to rugby competitions in Asia with the use of innovative technology in the likes of artificial intelligence and experimentation with law variations. The league plans to partner with major international and local commercial partners to secure the necessary funding, including broadcasting and media rights, merchandise sales, and other commercial activities.\nA comprehensive marketing and promotion campaign will be launched to raise awareness of the tournament and engage fans, with a focus on a strong online presence, social media campaigns, and traditional marketing activities.\nThe meeting was successful with positive inputs from all attending unions, including a comprehensive presentation by the Hong Kong Rugby Union sharing their experience with past franchise team South China Tigers. Malaysia Rugby and Singapore Rugby unions have also expressed their experiences with Malaysia Valke and Asia Pacific Dragons franchises teams respectively which were playing at the Global Rapid Rugby in 2019 and 2020 before it gets abandoned owing COVID-19 pandemic.\nhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sMGcQJDT-zU\n \nThe post Asia Rugby Grand League sees lights in May 2024 appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2023-02-04T23:20:34+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-02-05T00:16:01+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ARGL.jpg", "tags": [ "ARGL", "Featured" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=9264", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2023/02/03/qatar-vs-iran/", "title": "Asia Rugby season kicks off with Qatar vs Iran Clash \u200e", "content_html": "

-Test slated for\u00a0Friday, February 10th\u00a0in Al Ain, UAE
\n-Fierce rugby rivalry between two strong teams; high-octane showdown on the cards
\n-Mark the date to watch the match in real time on Asia Rugby\u2019s social media platforms

\n

Asia Rugby\u2019s 2023 season kicks off\u00a0on Friday 10th February\u00a0in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, with a highly anticipated Division 3 West showdown between Qatar and Iran, two of West Asia\u2019s Top teams. \u00a0Iran and Qatar have developed a fierce rugby rivalry and both appear well-prepared, confident and eager to lock horns again in, what is expected to be, a high-octane encounter.

\n

Qatar, a strong team, has been steadily improving in recent years and possesses a solid core group of players who are well-trained and highly motivated. The team is known for its quickness and agility, with many players well capable of executing quick breaks and getting over the try line.

\n

Iran, on the other hand, is a team that has been making waves. With a mix of experienced veterans and young talent, they have put together a squad that is both physical and skilled. Iran has a solid set piece and a strong defence, which makes them a tough team to beat.

\n

Back to Full Schedule, Enthralling Year of Rugby in the Offering: Asia Rugby Releases 2023 Calendar

\n

The last time the two sides clashed was in 2018 Division 3 West in Lebanon and Iran beat Qatar 17 \u2013 8.

\n

This will be the last match of the Division 3 Regional Championships 2022; the winner will progress to the playoffs of division 3 a step forward towards the ultimate goal of all teams to play in the Asia Rugby Championship the pathway for Rugby World Cup 2027 qualification road.

\n

Stay tuned and prepare to witness the exciting encounter in real time as Asia Rugby will be live streaming the match on its Facebook page and YouTube channel, and featuring highlights on its Instagram page.

\n

\nQatar vs Iran Live

\n

Live\u00a0

\n

The post Asia Rugby season kicks off with Qatar vs Iran Clash \u200e appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "-Test slated for\u00a0Friday, February 10th\u00a0in Al Ain, UAE\n-Fierce rugby rivalry between two strong teams; high-octane showdown on the cards\n-Mark the date to watch the match in real time on Asia Rugby\u2019s social media platforms\nAsia Rugby\u2019s 2023 season kicks off\u00a0on Friday 10th February\u00a0in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, with a highly anticipated Division 3 West showdown between Qatar and Iran, two of West Asia\u2019s Top teams. \u00a0Iran and Qatar have developed a fierce rugby rivalry and both appear well-prepared, confident and eager to lock horns again in, what is expected to be, a high-octane encounter.\nQatar, a strong team, has been steadily improving in recent years and possesses a solid core group of players who are well-trained and highly motivated. The team is known for its quickness and agility, with many players well capable of executing quick breaks and getting over the try line.\nIran, on the other hand, is a team that has been making waves. With a mix of experienced veterans and young talent, they have put together a squad that is both physical and skilled. Iran has a solid set piece and a strong defence, which makes them a tough team to beat.\nBack to Full Schedule, Enthralling Year of Rugby in the Offering: Asia Rugby Releases 2023 Calendar\nThe last time the two sides clashed was in 2018 Division 3 West in Lebanon and Iran beat Qatar 17 \u2013 8.\nThis will be the last match of the Division 3 Regional Championships 2022; the winner will progress to the playoffs of division 3 a step forward towards the ultimate goal of all teams to play in the Asia Rugby Championship the pathway for Rugby World Cup 2027 qualification road.\nStay tuned and prepare to witness the exciting encounter in real time as Asia Rugby will be live streaming the match on its Facebook page and YouTube channel, and featuring highlights on its Instagram page.\n\nQatar vs Iran Live\nLive\u00a0\nThe post Asia Rugby season kicks off with Qatar vs Iran Clash \u200e appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2023-02-03T22:40:32+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-02-03T22:40:32+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/iRAN-V-qATAR-1.jpg", "tags": [ "Featured", "Asia Rugby Championship", "Live Streaming" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=9254", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2023/01/27/world-rugby-u20-tournaments/", "title": "World Rugby U20 tournaments return in 2023", "content_html": "\n

After three cancelled editions (2020-22) on the back of the pandemic, rugby\u2019s two biggest men’s U20 tournaments are returning in 2023 and will feature the world\u2019s best young talents in the sport\u2019s bicentenary year.

\n

https://www.asiarugby.com/results/asia-rugby-u19-championships/u19-mens-championship-2022/

\n

South Africa will host the World Rugby U20 Championship for the next two years (2023 and 2024). The 2023 edition will be the second time that South Africa welcomes the future stars of the game after 2012 when the Junior Springboks won on home soil. The age-grade tournament will be held from 24 June-14 July. Played over five match days in the Western Cape Wineland regions of Stellenbosch, Paarl and Wellington, the world\u2019s best 12 nations have been placed into three pools and will all hope to clinch the coveted title and succeed two-time defending champions France. The team finishing last will be relegated to the World Rugby U20 Trophy next year.

\n

The World Rugby U20 Championship 2023 participating teams are: Argentina, Australia, England, Fiji, France, Georgia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, South Africa and Wales.

\n

Following the U20 Championship\u2019s conclusion, Kenya will host the\u00a0World Rugby U20 Trophy 2023 for the second time from 15-30 July, having previous staged the tournament in 2009. It will be the third time the tournament has been played in Africa with Zimbabwe having acted as hosts in 2016. Eight teams will battle over four match days at the Nyayo National Stadium with the eventual winner being promoted the U20 Championship in 2024.

\n

The World Rugby U20 Trophy 2023 participating teams are: Scotland (relegated from the U20 Championship in 2019), Kenya (hosts), Hong Kong (Asia), Samoa (Oceania), Spain (Europe), Uruguay (South America) and two teams still to qualify through regional competition from North America and Africa.

\n

The two age-grade tournaments are a key part of the international federation\u2019s investment in increasing the competitiveness of global rugby by providing a meaningful pathway to the elite level for talented young players. The showpiece tournaments, first held in 2008, have seen almost 1,500 players go on to make their test debut after playing on this stage, including 28 Rugby World Cup winners.

\n

World Rugby Chairman, Sir Bill Beaumont said: \u201cWe are thrilled to unveil our two exciting hosts for the World Rugby U20 Championship and U20 Trophy taking place later this year. South Africa and Kenya will provide the perfect stage for the return of our flagship U20 competitions that play such a crucial role in the development of young talents within our unions.

\n

\u201cThe U20 Championship and Trophy have been hugely popular since their inception 15 years ago and have proven successful with countless stars moving on to play test rugby and shine on the biggest stage and many of them will be on display when Rugby World Cup 2023 kicks off in September.

\n

\u201cAfrica is a significant growth region for rugby and I would like to thank our friends in Kenya and South Africa respectively for hosting in rugby\u2019s bicentenary year. We look forward to seeing the 20 teams inspiring the African continent with breath-taking action.\u201d

\n

SA Rugby President Mark Alexander added:\u00a0\u201cSouth Africa have a proud tradition and excellent track record of hosting world-class events and we are ready to welcome the next generations of rugby\u2019s future to our shores in July, and again next year.

\n

\u201cWe have the infrastructure and proven expertise to deliver excellent rugby events and, combined with fantastic backing from our passionate supporters, I have no doubt we will deliver two more very successful World Rugby U20 Championships.\u201d

\n
\n


\nWORLD RUGBY U20 CHAMPIONSHIP 2023
\n24 June-14 July | Cape Town and Western Cape, South Africa

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
POOL APOOL BPOOL C
France (1)Australia (2)South Africa (3)
Wales (6)England (5)Argentina (4)
New Zealand (7)Ireland (8)Italy (9)
Japan (12)Fiji (11)Georgia (10)
\n\n

Full match schedule here

\n

World Rugby U20 Championship: The story so far >>

\n

 

\n

WORLD RUGBY U20 TROPHY 2023
\n15-30 July | Nyayo National Stadium, Kenya

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
POOL APOOL B
ScotlandSpain
UruguaySamoa
Canada or USAKenya
Africa 2Hong Kong
\n\n

 

\n

Full match schedule here

\n

World Rugby U20 Trophy: the story so far >>

\n

The post World Rugby U20 tournaments return in 2023 appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "World Rugby U20 tournaments return for the first time since 2019\nPools and\u00a0match schedules\u00a0have been unveiled for both tournaments\nAfrican continent to host two influential men\u2019s age-grade competitions\nThe U20 Championship, featuring the best 12 U20 nations in the world, will take place in Cape Town and the Western Cape (South Africa) from 24 June-14 July\nSouth Africa will host the U20 Championship two years in a row (2023 and 2024)\nThe U20 Trophy will be contested by eight teams in Nairobi (Kenya) from 15-30 July\nWorld Rugby continues its U20 investment to increase rugby\u2019s competitiveness globally\n\nAfter three cancelled editions (2020-22) on the back of the pandemic, rugby\u2019s two biggest men’s U20 tournaments are returning in 2023 and will feature the world\u2019s best young talents in the sport\u2019s bicentenary year.\nhttps://www.asiarugby.com/results/asia-rugby-u19-championships/u19-mens-championship-2022/\nSouth Africa will host the World Rugby U20 Championship for the next two years (2023 and 2024). The 2023 edition will be the second time that South Africa welcomes the future stars of the game after 2012 when the Junior Springboks won on home soil. The age-grade tournament will be held from 24 June-14 July. Played over five match days in the Western Cape Wineland regions of Stellenbosch, Paarl and Wellington, the world\u2019s best 12 nations have been placed into three pools and will all hope to clinch the coveted title and succeed two-time defending champions France. The team finishing last will be relegated to the World Rugby U20 Trophy next year.\nThe World Rugby U20 Championship 2023 participating teams are: Argentina, Australia, England, Fiji, France, Georgia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, South Africa and Wales.\nFollowing the U20 Championship\u2019s conclusion, Kenya will host the\u00a0World Rugby U20 Trophy 2023 for the second time from 15-30 July, having previous staged the tournament in 2009. It will be the third time the tournament has been played in Africa with Zimbabwe having acted as hosts in 2016. Eight teams will battle over four match days at the Nyayo National Stadium with the eventual winner being promoted the U20 Championship in 2024.\nThe World Rugby U20 Trophy 2023 participating teams are: Scotland (relegated from the U20 Championship in 2019), Kenya (hosts), Hong Kong (Asia), Samoa (Oceania), Spain (Europe), Uruguay (South America) and two teams still to qualify through regional competition from North America and Africa.\nThe two age-grade tournaments are a key part of the international federation\u2019s investment in increasing the competitiveness of global rugby by providing a meaningful pathway to the elite level for talented young players. The showpiece tournaments, first held in 2008, have seen almost 1,500 players go on to make their test debut after playing on this stage, including 28 Rugby World Cup winners.\nWorld Rugby Chairman, Sir Bill Beaumont said: \u201cWe are thrilled to unveil our two exciting hosts for the World Rugby U20 Championship and U20 Trophy taking place later this year. South Africa and Kenya will provide the perfect stage for the return of our flagship U20 competitions that play such a crucial role in the development of young talents within our unions.\n\u201cThe U20 Championship and Trophy have been hugely popular since their inception 15 years ago and have proven successful with countless stars moving on to play test rugby and shine on the biggest stage and many of them will be on display when Rugby World Cup 2023 kicks off in September.\n\u201cAfrica is a significant growth region for rugby and I would like to thank our friends in Kenya and South Africa respectively for hosting in rugby\u2019s bicentenary year. We look forward to seeing the 20 teams inspiring the African continent with breath-taking action.\u201d\nSA Rugby President Mark Alexander added:\u00a0\u201cSouth Africa have a proud tradition and excellent track record of hosting world-class events and we are ready to welcome the next generations of rugby\u2019s future to our shores in July, and again next year.\n\u201cWe have the infrastructure and proven expertise to deliver excellent rugby events and, combined with fantastic backing from our passionate supporters, I have no doubt we will deliver two more very successful World Rugby U20 Championships.\u201d\n\n\nWORLD RUGBY U20 CHAMPIONSHIP 2023\n24 June-14 July | Cape Town and Western Cape, South Africa\n\n\n\nPOOL A\nPOOL B\nPOOL C\n\n\nFrance (1)\nAustralia (2)\nSouth Africa (3)\n\n\nWales (6)\nEngland (5)\nArgentina (4)\n\n\nNew Zealand (7)\nIreland (8)\nItaly (9)\n\n\nJapan (12)\nFiji (11)\nGeorgia (10)\n\n\n\n\nPool matches\n\nMatch day 1: Saturday 24 June\nMatch day 2: Thursday 29 June\nMatch day 3: Tuesday 4 July\n\n\nKnock-out matches\n\nMatch day 4: Sunday 9 July\nMatch day 5 (final): Friday 14 July\n\n\n\nFull match schedule here\nWorld Rugby U20 Championship: The story so far >>\n \nWORLD RUGBY U20 TROPHY 2023\n15-30 July | Nyayo National Stadium, Kenya\n\n\n\nPOOL A\nPOOL B\n\n\nScotland\nSpain\n\n\nUruguay\nSamoa\n\n\nCanada or USA\nKenya\n\n\nAfrica 2\nHong Kong\n\n\n\n\nPool matches\n\nMatch day 1: Saturday 15 July\nMatch day 2: Thursday 20 July\nMatch day 3: Tuesday 25 July\n\n\nFinal and ranking matches\n\nMatch day 4: Sunday 30 July\n\n\n\n \nFull match schedule here\nWorld Rugby U20 Trophy: the story so far >>\nThe post World Rugby U20 tournaments return in 2023 appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2023-01-27T00:16:07+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-01-27T00:16:07+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/PSX_20221212_153525-1.jpg", "tags": [ "Hong Kong", "Japan", "Featured" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=9250", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2023/01/25/hsbc-sydney-sevens-ready-for-action/", "title": "HSBC Sydney Sevens ready for action", "content_html": "\n

The world famous Sydney Harbour Bridge provided the backdrop as captains of the 28 men\u2019s and women\u2019s teams gathered ahead of the HSBC Sydney Sevens which kicks off on Friday 27 January.

\n

The high speed, all action event continues on Saturday with the culmination of the pool phase and quarter-finals, before the semi-finals and finals on Sunday.

\n

With the popular event returning to the city for the first time since 2020, Australia\u2019s men\u2019s and women\u2019s teams will be looking to put on a show for their fans as they enter the field at the Allianz Stadium as reigning Series champions.

\n\n

However New Zealand\u2019s Black Ferns Sevens and All Blacks Sevens lead the current Series standings and arrive in confident mood following their gold and silver medal wins respectively on home soil in Hamilton last weekend.

\n

The 2023 Series is shaping up to be the most competitive in history with the prize of Olympic Games Paris 2024 qualification on offer for the top four women\u2019s and men\u2019s teams in the 2023 Series standings, while hosts France have pre-qualified for next summer\u2019s pinnacle event in the nation\u2019s capital.

\n

The Men\u2019s Series has seen four different gold medal winners (Argentina, Australia, Samoa and South Africa) in the four rounds to date while New Zealand, Australia and the USA have claimed all the medals in the first three rounds of the women\u2019s competition.

\n

VIEW MEN\u2019S SERIES STANDINGS >>

\n

VIEW WOMEN\u2019S SERIES STANDINGS >>

\n

The stakes couldn\u2019t be higher at the bottom end of the men\u2019s Series this season as well. Following the penultimate event in Toulouse, the 15th ranked team will be relegated to the 2024 Sevens Challenger Series while the 12th through 14th ranked teams will face off against the Sevens Challenger Series 2023 winner for the 12th and final position on the 2024 Series.

\n

In the men\u2019s tournament in Sydney, Pool A sees Hamilton winners Argentina drawn with hosts Australia, Great Britain and Canada. Pool B is led by current Series leaders New Zealand, together with South Africa, Kenya and Uruguay. USA, Ireland, Samoa and Spain will compete in Pool C. Double Olympic champions Fiji will be looking to return to form and are in Pool D with France, Tonga and Japan.

\n

VIEW MEN\u2019S MATCH SCHEDULE >>

\n

The women\u2019s pools see New Zealand paired with Japan, France and Papua New Guinea in Pool A. USA head a strong looking Pool B that includes Great Britain, Fiji and Canada. Hosts Australia are in Pool C together with Ireland, Spain and Brazil.

\n

VIEW WOMEN\u2019S MATCH SCHEDULE >>

\n

The action begins at 12:00 local time (GMT+11) on Friday, beginning three days of action-packed world class rugby sevens, which concludes with the finals on Sunday evening.

\n

Tickets for the HSBC Sydney Sevens are available from\u00a0www.sydney7s.com.au/tickets.

\n

Rugby sevens fans around the world can watch the action via live stream on World Rugby digital platforms including\u00a0www.world.rugby, You Tube and Facebook in countries where there is no national broadcaster covering the event.

\n

WHERE TO WATCH >>

\n

The post HSBC Sydney Sevens ready for action appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "The HSBC Sydney Sevens returns to action on 27-29 January for first time since 2020\nHosts Australia are reigning men\u2019s and women\u2019s Series champions\nNew Zealand\u2019s All Blacks Sevens and Black Ferns Sevens lead current Series standings\nThe 2023 HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series is the most competitive in history with Paris 2024 Olympic qualification the prize for the top four teams\nPlay begins at 12:00 local time (GMT+11) on Friday, with the finals on Sunday\n\nThe world famous Sydney Harbour Bridge provided the backdrop as captains of the 28 men\u2019s and women\u2019s teams gathered ahead of the HSBC Sydney Sevens which kicks off on Friday 27 January.\nThe high speed, all action event continues on Saturday with the culmination of the pool phase and quarter-finals, before the semi-finals and finals on Sunday.\nWith the popular event returning to the city for the first time since 2020, Australia\u2019s men\u2019s and women\u2019s teams will be looking to put on a show for their fans as they enter the field at the Allianz Stadium as reigning Series champions.\n\nFrance 2023 family united to deliver best-ever Rugby World Cup in landmark year for the sport\nHSBC World Rugby Sevens Series returns to New Zealand\nExciting year of rugby sevens gets underway in Hamilton\nBack to Full Schedule, Enthralling Year of Rugby in the Offering: Asia Rugby Releases 2023 Calendar\n\nHowever New Zealand\u2019s Black Ferns Sevens and All Blacks Sevens lead the current Series standings and arrive in confident mood following their gold and silver medal wins respectively on home soil in Hamilton last weekend.\nThe 2023 Series is shaping up to be the most competitive in history with the prize of Olympic Games Paris 2024 qualification on offer for the top four women\u2019s and men\u2019s teams in the 2023 Series standings, while hosts France have pre-qualified for next summer\u2019s pinnacle event in the nation\u2019s capital.\nThe Men\u2019s Series has seen four different gold medal winners (Argentina, Australia, Samoa and South Africa) in the four rounds to date while New Zealand, Australia and the USA have claimed all the medals in the first three rounds of the women\u2019s competition.\nVIEW MEN\u2019S SERIES STANDINGS >>\nVIEW WOMEN\u2019S SERIES STANDINGS >>\nThe stakes couldn\u2019t be higher at the bottom end of the men\u2019s Series this season as well. Following the penultimate event in Toulouse, the 15th ranked team will be relegated to the 2024 Sevens Challenger Series while the 12th through 14th ranked teams will face off against the Sevens Challenger Series 2023 winner for the 12th and final position on the 2024 Series.\nIn the men\u2019s tournament in Sydney, Pool A sees Hamilton winners Argentina drawn with hosts Australia, Great Britain and Canada. Pool B is led by current Series leaders New Zealand, together with South Africa, Kenya and Uruguay. USA, Ireland, Samoa and Spain will compete in Pool C. Double Olympic champions Fiji will be looking to return to form and are in Pool D with France, Tonga and Japan.\nVIEW MEN\u2019S MATCH SCHEDULE >>\nThe women\u2019s pools see New Zealand paired with Japan, France and Papua New Guinea in Pool A. USA head a strong looking Pool B that includes Great Britain, Fiji and Canada. Hosts Australia are in Pool C together with Ireland, Spain and Brazil.\nVIEW WOMEN\u2019S MATCH SCHEDULE >>\nThe action begins at 12:00 local time (GMT+11) on Friday, beginning three days of action-packed world class rugby sevens, which concludes with the finals on Sunday evening.\nTickets for the HSBC Sydney Sevens are available from\u00a0www.sydney7s.com.au/tickets.\nRugby sevens fans around the world can watch the action via live stream on World Rugby digital platforms including\u00a0www.world.rugby, You Tube and Facebook in countries where there is no national broadcaster covering the event.\nWHERE TO WATCH >>\nThe post HSBC Sydney Sevens ready for action appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2023-01-25T16:45:46+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-01-25T18:26:12+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/HSBC-Sydney-Sevens-ready-for-action.jpg", "tags": [ "HSBC Sydney Sevens", "Sydney Sevens", "Harbour Bridge", "HSBC", "Featured", "News" ] }, { "id": "https://www.asiarugby.com/?p=9247", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/2023/01/24/france-2023-family-united-to-deliver-best-ever-rugby-world-cup-in-landmark-year-for-the-sport/", "title": "France 2023 family united to deliver best-ever Rugby World Cup in landmark year for the sport", "content_html": "

The family behind the delivery of Rugby World Cup 2023 in France have underscored their commitment to delivering one of the great sports events as they gathered for a special celebration in Paris.

\n\n

The family behind the delivery of Rugby World Cup 2023 in France have underscored their commitment to delivering one of the great sports events as they gathered for a special celebration in Paris.

\n

Leading figures from the French Sports Ministry, the French Rugby Federation (FFR) and the French National Olympic Committee (CNOSF) presented their wishes alongside World Rugby and France 2023 representatives, reaffirming the collective mission to deliver a transformative and engaging Rugby World Cup that will deliver multiple significant benefits for Rugby and France.

\n

Productive and positive meetings took place between the France 2023 Organising Committee and World Rugby to review the progress to date and plan the final push as the tournament enters its operational delivery phase. An updated project roadmap and budget will be presented to the France 2023 board on 2 February to consolidate the good progress and set this year\u2019s priorities with the event expected to leave a tangible legacy benefiting the French grassroot rugby. Rugby World Cup 2023 will kick-off on 8 September with a blockbuster at Stade de France (Saint-Denis) when hosts France will face New Zealand in front of a sold-out crowd.

\n

FRANCE READY TO WELCOME THE WORLD

\n

Across 48 matches, 51 days and nine host cities, fans will be able to experience the best of France and its lifestyle. Organisers and host cities are working together to implement Rugby Villages in the heart of host cities where the local public and international visitors can gather to share their passion for rugby and enjoy activities and products linked to France and the tournament. In a video published today, France 2023 is inviting rugby fans to get ready for an exceptional event and moments of celebrations together with more than 600,000 international visitors expected during the tournament.

\n

Following unprecedented demand for tickets and with more than two million tickets already sold, the Organising Committee will launch the\u00a0official resale platform\u00a0on Tuesday, 24 January at 18:00 CET. The website is the only official and secured way for fans to resell tickets bought during the previous sale phases. Tickets sold on other websites won\u2019t guarantee access to the Rugby World Cup 2023 venues.

\n

Avoid disappointment, buy official >>

\n

World Rugby Chairman\u00a0Sir Bill Beaumont\u00a0said: \u201cThe waiting is almost over! Rugby World Cup 2023 will be the main event in rugby\u2019s 200th\u00a0birthday celebrations and as we begin the year of the tournament, the spirit of unity across all stakeholders is strong. We can say with great confidence that France is ready. Ready to welcome the world\u2019s best players for an unforgettable celebration of rugby and French culture. Ready also to deliver a tournament that will forever be remembered as innovative, sustainable, and transformative; a tournament that brought people together.\u201d

\n

\u201cOur partners, the public authorities, the FFR, France 2023 and Rugby World Cup\u2019s staff were united in Paris earlier this month around one common objective: delivering a fantastic and responsible event, one that France can be proud of. In addition to incredible rugby action and lifelong memories, Rugby World Cup 2023 will be a celebration of our togetherness and will leave a legacy that will live long after the champions are crowned.\u201d

\n

France 2023 Chairman\u00a0Jacques Rivoal\u00a0added: \u201cHere we are! The closing moments of a match whose outcome is eagerly awaited by all: the delivery of Rugby World Cup 2023\u2019s 48 matches, the hosting of 20 qualified nations, the guaranteed emotions everywhere in France and abroad. With millions of rugby fans from around the world, we will make this Rugby World Cup 2023 a moment of togetherness and celebration.

\n

\u201cI would like to thank all those who, collectively, will bring this unique event to the highest standards: our founding members (FFR, French State, CNOSF), World Rugby, our economic and institutional partners, and the employees of the France 2023 Organising Committee.\u201d

\n

The French Minister of Sports, Olympic and Paralympic Games\u00a0Am\u00e9lie Oud\u00e9a-Cast\u00e9ra\u00a0said: \u201cIn 2023, it is in France that rugby fans from all over the world will meet. We will be up to the challenge of this extraordinary event and are working tirelessly to ensure that it is successfully organised in every respect. Our ambition is to enable all fans to experience a unique moment of fervour and popular celebration, to ensure that this Rugby World Cup leaves a legacy for the development of rugby in our country, and to make 2023 a great year for the global rugby family.\u201d

\n

Watch \u201cLet\u2019s Celebrate Togetherness\u201d video >>

\n

Rugby World Cup 2023 – Let’s Celebrate Togetherness

\n

Rugby World Cup 2023 will be a moment of celebration and togetherness. The world will be united from 8 September to 28 October, 2023 to share an unforgettable experience: the celebration of rugby and its values, the best of France and its lifestyle, the celebration of France 2023\u2019s commitment to have a positive impact and, overall, a nationwide festival for fans in France and abroad who will come together for 51 days and 48 matches, making this tournament a truly special one.

\n

The post France 2023 family united to deliver best-ever Rugby World Cup in landmark year for the sport appeared first on Asia Rugby.

\n", "content_text": "The family behind the delivery of Rugby World Cup 2023 in France have underscored their commitment to delivering one of the great sports events as they gathered for a special celebration in Paris.\n\nRugby World Cup year kicked off with an event bringing together all of France 2023 stakeholders in Paris\nFrench Minister of Sports, Olympic and Paralympic Games Am\u00e9lie Oud\u00e9a-Cast\u00e9ra announce “We will be up to the challenge of this extraordinary event”\nRugby World Cup 2023 will \u201cCelebrate Togetherness\u201d and rugby\u2019s unique ability to unite people\nPositive and productive meetings took place as the tournament is on track for its delivery\nFrance is preparing to welcome international fans with \u201cRugby Villages\u201d in host cities\nOfficial RWC 2023 ticketing resale platform will launch on 24 January at 18:00 CET\n\nThe family behind the delivery of Rugby World Cup 2023 in France have underscored their commitment to delivering one of the great sports events as they gathered for a special celebration in Paris.\nLeading figures from the French Sports Ministry, the French Rugby Federation (FFR) and the French National Olympic Committee (CNOSF) presented their wishes alongside World Rugby and France 2023 representatives, reaffirming the collective mission to deliver a transformative and engaging Rugby World Cup that will deliver multiple significant benefits for Rugby and France.\nProductive and positive meetings took place between the France 2023 Organising Committee and World Rugby to review the progress to date and plan the final push as the tournament enters its operational delivery phase. An updated project roadmap and budget will be presented to the France 2023 board on 2 February to consolidate the good progress and set this year\u2019s priorities with the event expected to leave a tangible legacy benefiting the French grassroot rugby. Rugby World Cup 2023 will kick-off on 8 September with a blockbuster at Stade de France (Saint-Denis) when hosts France will face New Zealand in front of a sold-out crowd.\nFRANCE READY TO WELCOME THE WORLD\nAcross 48 matches, 51 days and nine host cities, fans will be able to experience the best of France and its lifestyle. Organisers and host cities are working together to implement Rugby Villages in the heart of host cities where the local public and international visitors can gather to share their passion for rugby and enjoy activities and products linked to France and the tournament. In a video published today, France 2023 is inviting rugby fans to get ready for an exceptional event and moments of celebrations together with more than 600,000 international visitors expected during the tournament.\nFollowing unprecedented demand for tickets and with more than two million tickets already sold, the Organising Committee will launch the\u00a0official resale platform\u00a0on Tuesday, 24 January at 18:00 CET. The website is the only official and secured way for fans to resell tickets bought during the previous sale phases. Tickets sold on other websites won\u2019t guarantee access to the Rugby World Cup 2023 venues.\nAvoid disappointment, buy official >>\nWorld Rugby Chairman\u00a0Sir Bill Beaumont\u00a0said: \u201cThe waiting is almost over! Rugby World Cup 2023 will be the main event in rugby\u2019s 200th\u00a0birthday celebrations and as we begin the year of the tournament, the spirit of unity across all stakeholders is strong. We can say with great confidence that France is ready. Ready to welcome the world\u2019s best players for an unforgettable celebration of rugby and French culture. Ready also to deliver a tournament that will forever be remembered as innovative, sustainable, and transformative; a tournament that brought people together.\u201d\n\u201cOur partners, the public authorities, the FFR, France 2023 and Rugby World Cup\u2019s staff were united in Paris earlier this month around one common objective: delivering a fantastic and responsible event, one that France can be proud of. In addition to incredible rugby action and lifelong memories, Rugby World Cup 2023 will be a celebration of our togetherness and will leave a legacy that will live long after the champions are crowned.\u201d\nFrance 2023 Chairman\u00a0Jacques Rivoal\u00a0added: \u201cHere we are! The closing moments of a match whose outcome is eagerly awaited by all: the delivery of Rugby World Cup 2023\u2019s 48 matches, the hosting of 20 qualified nations, the guaranteed emotions everywhere in France and abroad. With millions of rugby fans from around the world, we will make this Rugby World Cup 2023 a moment of togetherness and celebration.\n\u201cI would like to thank all those who, collectively, will bring this unique event to the highest standards: our founding members (FFR, French State, CNOSF), World Rugby, our economic and institutional partners, and the employees of the France 2023 Organising Committee.\u201d\nThe French Minister of Sports, Olympic and Paralympic Games\u00a0Am\u00e9lie Oud\u00e9a-Cast\u00e9ra\u00a0said: \u201cIn 2023, it is in France that rugby fans from all over the world will meet. We will be up to the challenge of this extraordinary event and are working tirelessly to ensure that it is successfully organised in every respect. Our ambition is to enable all fans to experience a unique moment of fervour and popular celebration, to ensure that this Rugby World Cup leaves a legacy for the development of rugby in our country, and to make 2023 a great year for the global rugby family.\u201d\nWatch \u201cLet\u2019s Celebrate Togetherness\u201d video >>\nRugby World Cup 2023 – Let’s Celebrate Togetherness\nRugby World Cup 2023 will be a moment of celebration and togetherness. The world will be united from 8 September to 28 October, 2023 to share an unforgettable experience: the celebration of rugby and its values, the best of France and its lifestyle, the celebration of France 2023\u2019s commitment to have a positive impact and, overall, a nationwide festival for fans in France and abroad who will come together for 51 days and 48 matches, making this tournament a truly special one.\nThe post France 2023 family united to deliver best-ever Rugby World Cup in landmark year for the sport appeared first on Asia Rugby.", "date_published": "2023-01-24T22:40:08+08:00", "date_modified": "2023-01-24T22:40:08+08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Asia Rugby", "url": "https://www.asiarugby.com/author/k-haroon/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ea791d807df550e52d2e6508886912b7?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.asiarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/France-2023.jpg", "tags": [ "Rugby World Cup", "France 2023", "Rugby World Cup 2023", "CNOSF", "FFR", "Featured", "News" ] } ] }