England Sevens prep for Manchester

 

At the halfway point of the series England lead the way in the standings after claiming the Moscow title in June.

 

Simon Amor’s side will kick off proceedings on day one against Romania before facing Belgium and Russia.

 

After Manchester, England head to Bucharest in Romania the following weekend where they will look to defend last year’s trophy.

 

“This is a great opportunity to make a statement in what is our first big test of the new season," head coach Amor said.

 

"We have lost some experience in terms of guys leaving the programme but we have some exciting new players in the fold and this is a real chance to stake a claim ahead of that HSBC Sevens World Series first leg in Australia.

 

“To have this tournament in Manchester is fantastic and the support the RFU has put behind the competition is great. 

 

"We’re hoping for a good crowd on both days, and I know that the guys are relishing the chance to get out there.”

 

England Sevens squad: Dan Bibby, Tom Bowen, John Brake, Phil Burgess, Alex Davis, Alex Gray, Charlie Hayter, Christian Lewis-Pratt, Daniel Norton, James Rodwell, Jack Walsh, Marcus Watson.