The world of rugby is abuzz with the upcoming inaugural season of Ultimate Sevens, but the stars of the sport are already making their mark in various regional competitions. From Japan to Kenya, and New Zealand to South Africa, the Sevens stars are shining bright, and RugbyPass brings you all the action from this weekend's rugby extravaganza.
Japan's Shining Stars
The 2026 Taiyo Seimei Women’s Sevens is set to reach its climax this weekend in Sapporo. The defending champions, Nagato Blue Angels, are the favorites to win the tournament after topping the ladder. The Blue Angels boast a formidable lineup, including Aussie 7s star Mackenzie Davis, who was named the Most Valuable Player, as well as fellow Australians Amahlia Hala and Kahli Henwood, Fiji’s Ana Naimasi, Chinese Olympian Chen Keyi, and Brazil’s star Bianca Silva. However, the competition is far from over, with Mie Pearls, Nippon Sport Science University, and Nanairo Prism Fukuoka posing significant challenges to the Blue Angels. The tournament will also feature a promotion and relegation system, adding an extra layer of excitement to the final showdown.
Kenyan Sevens Circuit
In Kenya, the National Sevens Circuit is heating up after a thrilling second weekend at the Dala 7s. The defending champions, KCB, faced a setback as they lost to Kenya Harlequins 14-12 in the quarterfinals, with two red cards and a depleted squad. This result saw KCB drop to second place, with Kabras Sugar climbing to the top. The competition will resume this weekend for the third round at the Kabeberi 7s, with KCB and Kabras Sugar in the same pool, setting the stage for an intense battle for the top spot.
New Zealand's NPC Showdown
The National Provincial Championship (NPC) in New Zealand is also witnessing the rise of Sevens stars. After an exhilarating opening weekend, several key players are set to showcase their skills in the weekly grind. Sam Clarke, who shone for Taranaki with a try and kicking prowess, will partner with former All Blacks Sevens star Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens. Their opponents, Waikato, feature Oli Mathis, a Sevens alumni who scored a try in their recent win over Bay of Plenty. Auckland and Wellington will clash in a North Island heavyweight contest, with Che Clark and Payton Spencer starting for the Steamers, while Northland welcomes veteran Brady Rush.
Tongan Sevens alumni Kyren Taumoefolau will start on the wing for Tasman as they aim to go two-from-two against Hawke’s Bay. The South Island derby, a Ranfurly Shield clash, will feature Olympic and Commonwealth Games medalist Andrew Knewstubb on the bench for Otago, who will face Sevens alumni Jona Nareki. Southland will look to bounce back with Michael Manson and Scott Gregory retaining their starting positions.
Currie Cup in South Africa
In South Africa, the Currie Cup is about to get a major shakeup with the arrival of the All Blacks for the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour. The third week of action will feature a top-of-the-table clash between the Lions and Griquas in Kimberley, with Sevens alumni Gurshwin Wehr on the wing and Commonwealth Games gold medalist Sako Marata on the bench. The Pumas will travel to Loftus Versfeld to face the Blue Bulls, with utility player Darren Adonis, who has experience in the Sevens format, likely to feature. The Sharks will aim for their second win of the season when they host the Cavaliers, with Blitzbok and Springbok U20 champion Luan Giliomee starting at fullback, supported by Olympic medalist Christie Grobbelaar on the wing.
In conclusion, the Sevens stars are shining across the globe, and this weekend's rugby action promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent. From Japan's Taiyo Seimei Women’s Sevens to Kenya's National Sevens Circuit, New Zealand's NPC, and South Africa's Currie Cup, the competition is fierce, and the stars are ready to make their mark. RugbyPass will bring you all the updates from these exciting tournaments, so stay tuned for more action-packed rugby!
