Blitzboks handed tough Dubai draw
With global excitement building ahead of Seven'’ biggest season, the world's top players – representing 28 national teams – the Blitzboks are the top-seeds in Pool B and are the defending Dubai champions.
Reigning series champions Fiji head Pool A and kick-off proceedings against Canada with further ties against Japan and Argentina. Twelve-time series champions New Zealand face matches against USA, France and Portugal in Pool C, while in Pool D England will compete against Australia, Wales and Kenya.
The South Africans start their Dubai campaign against powerful Samoa before facing Russia and tackling Scotland later in the evening on the opening day.
In his reaction to the Dubai draw, Springbok Sevens coach Neil Powell said his team will approach each pool match on its merit.
"With so much at stake this season, the bigger World Series and the Olympics, it will be vital for us to keep our focus and concentrate on the most immediate task. In this respect it is Dubai, where we have a strong pool.
"Day One is very important and our approach will be to stick to our system and strive for the desired outcomes," Powell said.
Pool A: Fiji, Argentina, Canada, Japan
Pool B: South Africa, Scotland, Samoa, Russia
Pool C: New Zealand, USA, France, Portugal
Pool D: England, Australia, Wales, Kenya
