Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Dobela eager to make most of Blitzboks debut in Singapore
FORMER Junior Springbok flyhalf Lubabalo Dobela will make his World Rugby Sevens Series debut in Singapore next weekend after being named in the Blitzbok squad yesterday.
Dobela is the only newcomer in Neil Powell’s squad for the fifth event of the 2022 season. The group features three changes to the side that finished top of the podium in Seville at the end of January.
The 23-year-old former Cheetahs player replaces Justin Geduld, who picked up a serious knee injury in
Spain, while regular captain, Siviwe Soyizwapi is also back after missing the last tournament due to an injury suffered in Malaga the week before.
SA Rugby Sevens Player of the Year Ronald Brown, who also missed the Spanish leg due to injury, is also back and replaces Branco du Preez, who is recovering from a shoulder injury.
“It is great to have Ronald and Siviwe back again, while
I am pleased that Lubabalo is getting his opportunity,” said Powell. “He joined the SA Rugby Sevens Academy in 2021 and has impressed from day one. I have no doubt that he is ready to perform at this level.”
Powell added that a strong start will be crucial in Singapore:
“Our focus will pretty much be on that first match in Singapore next weekend. We have not played since late January and will need to hit the ground running.”
Dobela, who turns 24 next month, expressed his eagerness to show what he can do.
“That was a great feeling, especially since I lost a family member recently, so the news really lifted my spirits,” said Dobela. “Coach told me to go out and make my mistakes as there are experienced players around me to take the weight off my shoulders. That eased the nerves and I am keen to back my skillset with this wonderful group of players.”
The tournament will be hosted at the Singapore National Stadium on Saturday and Sunday, April 9 and 10, and will be followed by the rescheduled Canada Sevens, to be played in BC Place, Vancouver, on April 16 and 17.