TIGERS UNITED

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...

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...

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...

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...