ARN World Tens Dream Team

The inaugural World Tens Series event is now behind us and despite a number of speed bumps along the way, it can only be described as a success. Perhaps a pleasant surprise was the standard of play. Some lesser-known talents showed up well and most of the high profile players delivered. Without further adieu, here are our choices for the best of the tournament.

1 – Brad Tucker (Ohio Aviators) The Seawolves lock moved up into the front row and proved one of Ohio’s best performers. Known for his carrying game in MLR, Tucker rolled up his sleeves and did much of the dirty work in Bermuda. With most teams rotating props Tucker ate up a huge amount of game time.

2 – Cyrille Cama (Rhinos) A revelation for the surprise package of the tournament. Cama is of Fijian stock but is now an American citizen and was in the USA u20 squad announced earlier this year. Powerful with ball in hand and the most effective breakdown specialist on show. The question now is what is his best position in the 15s game? His build and playing style reminds us of Fiji and La Rochelle star Levani Botia.

3 – Conor Kindregan (Rhinos) Sporting a new ‘Sideshow Bob’ haircut, Kindregan was in rampaging form for the Rhinos. Like Tucker he moved up to prop and did an admirable job in the scrum, but it was in the loose where the Free Jacks colossus made his mark. Honorable mention to Devante Onojaife who was rock solid for the Royals.

4 – Kyle Baillie (Ohio Aviators) Named MVP of the Finals and for good reason. Baillie is our pick as Player of the Tournament. While some MLR players who shall go unnamed turned up in questionable shape, the Canadians to a man looked in fine form with Baillie a dynamo in every respect. Shout-outs to SX10 skipper Harry McNulty and top try-scorer Lino Saunitoga of the Dragons.

5 – Richard de Carpentier (London Royals) In the pool stage it was de Carpentier who took home MVP honors. He formed an excellent second row unit with Ross Neal. Like Baillie, The England Sevens stalwart seemed to be involved in everything good for his team. Patrick Regan was a virtual unknown who deserves recognition for his effort with the Rhinos.

6 – JP Smith (Ohio Aviators) A spot worthy of debate with different styles on show. As a running threat we were highly impressed with Eric Naposki of the Rhinos, while Tom Mitchell would be on most short-lists for his all-around contributions. In the end we opted for Smith, whose physicality and strong kicking game suited Ohio’s style to a tee.

7 – Cecil Afrika (SX10) Absolute class from the moment his team were finally allowed on the pitch. Still fleet of foot and his stepping ability made space for everyone around him. Top scorer Tom Emery of the Royals and Rhinos captain Mike Te’o were considered but there are levels to this game.

8 – Tomasi Alosio (Asia Pacific Dragons) It was tempting to select Alosio at halfback to make room for the outstanding JT Jackson of SX10, but the Samoa Sevens captain spent most of his time in the midfield so that’s where he stays. The full package whose running lines and distribution were top drawer.

9 – Ben Foden (London Royals) A nod to Aaron Matthews, who did exceptionally well for the Rhinos before his unfortunate arm break. We also wished Tristan Blewett had arrived earlier for the Aviators. As it was England’s finest rubbished conceptions that his time is up. It was Foden’s defense – which has looked shaky at times in MLR – that ultimately earned him the spot at outside center.

10 – Collins Injera (SX10) Saunitoga was the top try scorer and there was a brief thought of picking the Fijian forward on the wing, but Injera simply cannot be denied. In only two days of action he scored six tries and there can be no doubt he was the best finisher on display. Even long-time World Sevens rival Dan Norton has to concede to the Kenyan flyer.