Aussies make two changes

Sydney: Jesse Parahi and Charlie Taylor have earned recalls for this weekend’s s World Sevens Series in Sydney. Sitting sixth after two rounds, Australian coach Andy Friend has singled out his side’s home tournament as winnable. It also shapes as crucial to Australia’s hopes at April’s Commonwealth Games, given performances will determine the final seedings on the Gold Coast. Friend has opted to recall Parahi, a veteran of 36 international caps, and rugby league convert Taylor for his first start of the season ahead of incumbents Matthew Hood and Jeral Skelton. “Jesse, Charlie and (13th man) Tom (Lucas) all played well in Darwin (Hottest 7s tournament last weekend), and have earned their inclusion into the squad,” he said. “As a squad, it’s now about trusting the hard work we’ve put in over the past six months, and enjoying the vibe and excitement about playing on our home turf.” Australia’s men’s team has not won a World Series leg since 2012 but hope to snap that drought in Sydney after a surprise semi-final appearance last year. April’s Games and the World Cup in San Francisco later this year are Friend’s other two major points of focus. USA, Canada and Scotland are in Australia’s pool, with play beginning on Friday at Allianz Stadium and the final on Sunday night. Aust squad: Charlie Taylor, Simon Kennewell, Sam Myers, Lewis Holland (c), James Stannard, John Porch, Tim Anstee, Jesse Parahi, Boyd Killingworth, Ben O’Donnell, Maurice Longbottom, Lachie Anderson, Tom Lucas (13th man).