Springbok Sevens stalwart Impi Visser is back at the helm of the Blitzboks for the HSBC SVNS North American leg, with the regular captain closing in on his 50th world series tournament, while an experienced playmaking trio return with the inclusion of another uncapped player in the squad.
Ryan Oosthuizen has lifted HSBC SVNS trophies across the globe, but the first one in Australia certainly ranks amongst the best, not because of his Player of the Final performance in Perth, but because the Springbok Sevens held themselves accountable to play according to their standards.
Expect the Springbok Sevens to bounce back to a potential podium finish in Perth this weekend, where the fourth leg of the tightly contested 2026 HSBC SVNS takes place at HBF Park.
Springbok Sevens head coach Philip Snyman expressed frustration and disappointment in his team’s fourth-place finish at the HSBC SVNS Singapore on Sunday.
They had the absolute high of winning their home tournament in Cape Town last month, but that ship has sailed and for the Springbok Sevens team this weekend’s HSBC SVNS Singapore will represent a fresh challenge. And they will be ready for it.
Springbok Sevens captain Impi Visser credited his side’s ability to “stay in the moment” as crucial to a consecutive HSBC SVNS Cape Town title at DHL Stadium on Sunday, with the Blitzboks claiming back-to-back titles with a win over Argentina.
The Springbok Sevens successfully defended their HSBC SVNS Cape Town title in spectacular fashion, edging Argentina by 21-19 in a hard-fought final on Sunday afternoon.
Zander Reynders’ debut for the Springbok Sevens, a year ago at the HSBC SVNS Cape Town, was a surreal experience and to return to DHL Stadium where it all started was a reminder of how blessed his rugby career has been since.
The Springbok Sevens will face Dubai champions New Zealand, as well as Fiji and Great Britain on the opening day of the HSBC SVNS Cape Town on Saturday as the pool draw was confirmed following last weekend’s action in the desert.
It was an umpteenth trip to the Emirates Dubai Sevens for Impi Visser on Monday, but the first time as Springbok Sevens captain – little wonder he represented the Blitzboks with dignified pride and confidence at the official captains’ photo this week.