NZ Rugby Urged to Integrate XVs Stars in Sevens After Olympic Disappointment
New Zealand Rugby (NZR) faces calls for significant changes following the All Blacks Sevens’ disappointing performance at the Olympics. Despite a strong showing in the pool stages, the team was unexpectedly eliminated in the quarter-finals by South Africa, ultimately finishing fifth after defeating Ireland 17-7.
The failure to secure a medal has led to an inquest back home, with many New Zealanders questioning the absence of XVs stars in the sevens format. France’s Olympic success, led by Antoine Dupont, has further fueled these discussions, highlighting the potential impact of key All Blacks transitioning to sevens.
Tomasi Cama, the head coach of the All Blacks Sevens, advocates for the inclusion of XVs players in the sevens team, believing it would benefit the game and inspire future players. “If All Blacks or Super Rugby [players] come and play sevens, it can inspire some other players that are thinking the only way to a Super Rugby [contract] or to the All Blacks is through playing 15s,” Cama told the New Zealand Herald.
Cama emphasizes the skills developed in sevens, which could be beneficial for XVs players. He has made his opinion known to the NZR hierarchy, pushing for a more integrated approach. Rugby’s return to the Olympics in 2016 saw some crossover, with stars like Sonny Bill Williams and the Ioane brothers, Rieko and Akira, joining the sevens squad.
However, the increasing specialization of both formats poses challenges. The dedication and hard work of sevens players throughout the season make it difficult to justify replacing them with XVs stars. “With the way we performed last season we really believe in our sevens boys,” Cama stated. “We really believe in our programme and the people involved and we want to reward them as well for their hard work.”
Looking ahead to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, Cama hopes a solution can be found that benefits both formats. “It is always going to be good. We need to assess that. I would love to see that happen. It is a matter to talk to the right people,” he said.
As New Zealand rugby contemplates its strategy, the integration of XVs stars into the sevens team could be a game-changer, potentially leading to greater success on the global stage.
