World Rugby Player of the Year Perry Baker has recovered from concussion suffered in the opening round of the HSBC Sevens Series to take his place in the Eagles squad for the Sydney tournament this weekend. The return of Baker is one of two changes to the squad that took part in Cape Town last month.
Originally called in to replace Baker, Kevon Williams retains his spot in the squad with youngster Naima Fuala’au instead left out. Malon Al-Jiboori switches his focus to the Americas Rugby Championship with former Delaware captain Chris Mattina drafted in to make his first appearance on the senior circuit.
The Eagles are currently in 12th spot overall after two tournaments. They have been drawn in Pool D for Sydney along with Australia, Scotland, and North American neighbors Canada. A live broadcast will be available on ESPN 3 with World Rugby providing a stream for those outside the USA.
USA EAGLES 7s
Perry Baker, Danny Barrett, Madison Hughes (capt.), Martin Iosefo, Carlin Isles, Matai Leuta, Chris Mattina, Folau Niua, Ben Pinkelman, Joe Schroeder, Stephen Tomasin, Maka Unufe, Kevon Williams
POOL FIXTURES
Jan 26 – 20:12 local, 04:12 ET – vs Australia
Jan 27 – 16:53 local, 00:53 ET – vs Scotland
Jan 27 – 20:26 local, 04:26 ET – vs Canada