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NEW ZEALAND AND SOUTH AFRICA CLAIM HONG KONG TITLES

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By: Megat Mohammad Faisal The Hong Kong Sevens turned 50, and celebrated like only it can, with roaring crowds, nonstop action, and unforgettable champions at Kai Tak Stadium. It was a weekend where rugby met festival energy. Fans packed the stands in record numbers, including a stunning 41,457 on Saturday alone, creating an atmosphere that players could feel in every tackle, sprint, and try. On the field, New Zealand once again showed why they are the benchmark in women’s sevens. In a gripping final, they edged rivals Australia 19–14 to secure their fourth straight Hong Kong title, extending a dominant run that continues to define the global stage. Then came the moment the crowd had been waiting for. South Africa delivered a statement performance, overpowering Argentina 35–7 to finally claim their first Hong Kong crown. A breakthrough victory years in the making. With France ’s women and Spain ’s men also stepping onto the podium, the tournament had it all, drama, history, and ce...
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HONG KONG SEVENS 2026 DELIVERS GOLDEN MOMENTS

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By: Megat Mohammad Faisal The Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens is not just another stop on the calendar, it’s a golden celebration. From 17–19 April 2026, the legendary tournament marks its 50th anniversary, and for rugby fans who treat this trip like an annual pilgrimage, this one feels extra special. Welcome to a new era at Kai Tak Stadium . After decades at Hong Kong Stadium, the Sevens now moves into a futuristic 50,000-seat arena complete with a retractable roof and cooling system.  Let’s be honest, Hong Kong humidity is the real opponent. And don’t worry, the iconic South Stand survives, costumes and all. Yes, that guy dressed as a banana will still be there. Off the field, it’s pure entertainment. Think Vengaboys , K-pop, and a party vibe that makes you question whether you came for rugby or a three-day festival (spoiler: it’s both). On the pitch, expect fireworks. South Africa  sevens team arrive as the team to beat, while Fiji rugby sevens team bring their trademark fl...
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ACTION-PACKED SEASON AWAITS MALAYSIAN RUGBY FANS

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Malaysian rugby fans have plenty to look forward to as Malaysia Rugby unveiled its exciting 2026 calendar, featuring elite competitions, international fixtures, and strong development initiatives. The season begins with Piala Agong 2026 from May 9 to June 28, involving 10 teams. Defending champions PDRM return, while Johor are expected to mount a serious title challenge. July will spotlight the Union Cup XV Men’s Championship, now in its third edition. Malaysia’s Bunga Raya 15s will make their debut, joining defending champions Philippines , along with Thailand , Singapore , Chinese Taipei , and Guam . The Bunga Raya 15s are also set to compete in the Asia Rugby Championship Division 1, with venue and dates yet to be confirmed. Development remains a priority through the National Rugby Development Program (NRDP), now overseen by the Malaysia Rugby. As part of this effort, the Bunga Raya Cup Under-18 Championship will be held in July. On the international stage, Malaysia’s men’s...
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BLACK FERNS AND BLITZBOKS SEAL SVNS TITLES

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South Africa and New Zealand produced a spectacular finish to the HSBC SVNS Series in New York, sealing both tournament glory and overall season honours in dramatic fashion. New Zealand’s Black Ferns Sevens once again showcased their champion quality, edging fierce rivals Australia 22–21 in a thrilling final. Despite already securing the overall series title, New Zealand showed no signs of slowing down, with Kelsey Teneti scoring twice alongside tries from Alena Saili and Katelyn Vahaakolo . Australia pushed them to the limit, but the Black Ferns held firm to claim their fifth tournament win of the season. The Blitzboks held their nerve to edge Fiji 10–7 in a tense men’s final, clinching the gold medal and the overall series title. With both prizes at stake, South Africa struck early as captain Impi Visser , playing his 50th tournament, created space for Gino Cupido to score the opening try. Tristan Leyds extended the lead before Fiji fought back through Terio Veilawa , s...
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PORTUGAL STUN GEORGIA TO WIN EUROPEAN TITLE

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Portugal delivered one of the greatest moments in their rugby history by stunning Georgia national rugby union team 19–17 to win the Rugby Europe Championship final on Sunday in Spain. Played at Estadio Butarque , the gripping encounter saw Portugal overcome years of Georgian dominance with a heroic defensive display and remarkable determination. The victory ended a 20-year wait for Portugal’s first win over Georgia and secured their first European title since 2004, sparking emotional celebrations among players and fans. Georgia struck first through a try by Ilia Spanderashvili before No.8 Tornike Jalagonia powered over to extend their advantage, giving the favourites a 12–3 lead at halftime. Portugal fought back through the boot of full-back Manuel Vareiro , whose penalties gradually closed the gap and kept his side within striking distance. Georgia looked set for victory when substitute Beka Gorgadze crossed to make it 17–9 with 14 minutes remaining. But Portugal refused to...
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SOUTH AFRICA AND NEW ZEALAND DOMINATE VANCOUVER

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New Zealand and South Africa finished on top at the HSBC SVNS tournament in Vancouver after strong performances at BC Place Stadium. South Africa’s men’s team, known as the Blitzboks , won the Vancouver title to add to their victories in Perth and Cape Town earlier this season. They went unbeaten throughout the tournament and climbed to the top of the series standings. South Africa are now level on points with Fiji in the overall rankings. The win was also their first tournament victory in Canada since the shortened series in Edmonton in 2021. Blitzboks captain Impi Visser said the team was proud of the result but quickly turned attention to the next tournament in New York. He explained that the squad had many changes recently, but the players worked hard to stay consistent and keep their winning momentum. Fiji continued their impressive run this season by finishing on the podium again. They defeated Australia to claim third place, making it five podium finishes in five tournamen...
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AZIZULHASNI STORMS TO WORLD CUP GOLD

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Malaysian cycling legend Azizulhasni Awang proved he still belongs among the world’s best after producing a thrilling keirin victory at the UCI Track Cycling World Cup in Perth. The 38-year-old star delivered a tactical masterclass in the final at the Perth SpeedDome . Starting fifth behind the derny, Azizulhasni patiently waited for his moment before latching onto the wheel of pre-race favourite Matthew Richardson of Great Britain on the penultimate lap. As Richardson surged ahead down the final straight, the Malaysian ace launched a perfectly timed sprint. In a dramatic dash to the line, Azizulhasni edged past Richardson by the narrowest of margins. A photo finish confirmed the Dungun-born rider had claimed gold, sparking celebrations as he performed his trademark wheelie for the crowd. The triumph was even more impressive as Azizulhasni had earlier been forced into the repechage after finishing third in his opening heat, making his path to victory even tougher. Meanwhile, Malaysi...
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