Curry leads charge for Olympic glory
ALL BLACKS veteran Liam Messam has missed out on representing New Zealand in the Sevens at the Rio Olympics.
While fellow All Black regular in recent years Sonny Bill Williams, below, was named in the squad of 12 for men’s coach Gordon Tietjens, it’s understood Messam will now rejoin his old Super Rugby side the Chiefs for the remainder of their 2016 title-chasing campaign.
Kurt Baker was another high-profile omission from the men’s team.
Captain Scott Curry said: “The Olympic Games is the pinnacle in world sport so to get an opportunity to go is really special.
“We know it’s going to be a massive challenge – everyone will be eyeing that gold medal. Having said that we think we have a pretty strong team so we will certainly be giving it our best shot.
“What’s really exciting for me is just being part of the wider New Zealand Olympic team. To see other athletes from New Zealand in Rio who are the very best in their sport will be inspiring for sure.”
Tietjens said: “To go to the Olympic Games which is the best sporting event in the world will be quite special. It’s going to be a challenging environment for all of us and all the teams as it’s such a new experience.
“Every player has been selected because they’ve performed well during the Sevens Series and in the training camps since then so have earned their position.