Title holders Borneo Eagles the clear favourites in Sevens meet

SANDAKAN: Defending champions Borneo Eagles, powered by 12 New Zealand players, will be the team to beat in the Borneo Sevens International Rugby Championship which begins today at the Eagles Rugby Club in Sandakan.

The total prize money for the three-day competition is US$28,750 (RM156,937).

Team manager Cumaran Tan said they were leaving no stone unturned in the quest to win their fourth consecutive title.

“We’ve roped in All Black players as our aim is to continue our domination in the tournament.

“The players arrived here last Saturday and they’re in high spirits to give the other teams a run for their money,” said Cumaran.

The players are Solomon Joseph Paraki, Benjamin Carter Smisth, Rupeni Tamanikaiyaroi, Chad Francis Volavola, James Owen Little, VugaWalkaitolu Tagicakibau, Curtis Bruce Reid, Epeli Sigalele Lotawa, Liam Tony Daniela, Brody Morris Lam, Cyedn D. Timoti and coach Tutu Tairea.

Cumaran said they would face a strong challenge from New Zealand as they have some very good players.

“But I’m optimistic that we will lift the title,” said Cumaran.

Malaysia are drawn in Group B with Tribe 7s, Belgium Babarian and Tainan Chang Jung Rugby Team while Hong Kong Dragons, Mellowpuff Barbarian, Tawau Rugby and Sabah Sukma are drawn in Group C.

Group D consists of Sabah Eagles, Sri Lanka and Islander Rugby Club.

Eight teams will also feature in the women’s competition and defending champions Sri Lanka are drawn in Group A with Hong Kong Dragons, Eagles RFC Select and Sabah Sukma while last year’s runners-up Thailand are in Group B with Singapore Select, Sabah Eagles and Islander Women Rugby Club.