Americas Rugby News Rugby news from across the Americas!
John Moonlight will become Canada’s all-time leading caps winner in the HSBC Sevens Series when he takes the field in Las Vegas this weekend. In reaching his 53rd HSBC Series tournament he surpasses former teammate Phil Mack’s total of 52. The pair are the only Canadians to reach the 50 mark on the circuit. Shane Thompson reached 67 caps over his distinguished career but many came before the advent of the circuit in 1999, with his official HSBC Series total 46 tournaments.
Of note is the retention of Harry Jones as captain, after leading the team to the Wellington and Sydney tournaments. Originally intended to be a temporary assignment, the switch appears to be moving towards permanent status. Nathan Hirayama is also included in the group though his involvement in Las Vegas is listed as questionable as he recovers from injury.
Making a full – and welcome – return to the squad is Phil Berna, who is now back up to speed following elbow surgery. Also recalled is forward Luke Bradley, who steps in for the unavailable Matt Mullins. Karsten Leitner drops out to make room for Berna.
Canada finished a disappointing 13th in Sydney after their remarkable Cup Semi Final performance in Wellington just a week earlier. They currently sit 12th overall on the Series table, three points behind Kenya. Canada has been drawn in Pool A in Las Vegas along with South Africa, France, and arch-enemy Wales. All matches will be streamed live by World Rugby.
CANADA MEN’S 7s
Phil Berna, Luke Bradley, Justin Douglas, Mike Fuailefau, Lucas Hammond, Nathan Hirayama, Harry Jones (capt.), Caleb Jordan, Isaac Kaay, Pat Kay, Luke McCloskey, John Moonlight, Adam Zaruba
POOL FIXTURES
Fri, Mar 3 – 18:43 PT, 21:34 ET – vs South Africa
Fri, Mar 3 – 21:20 PT, 00:20 ET – vs Wales
Sat, Mar 4 – 15:46 PT, 18:46 ET – vs France
