Pukke head to Sevens' birthplace

 

Next week Saturday, April 11, Pukke will take to the pitch for this year’s Melrose Sevens which transforms the picturesque town of Melrose in Scotland into a rugby Mecca.

 

South African teams have lifted the trophy several times in the past, so it’s hoped that Pukke can take the trophy home to Potchefstroom.

 

Over 12,000 rugby fans will travel to Melrose from across the globe to personally experience the buzz and atmosphere of the live action. 

 

Pukke will face stiff competition in the form of around 20 Scottish teams, an international team from Germany, as well as last year’s winners, Glasgow Warriors.

 

The tournament originated in Melrose over a century ago when local player Ned Haig, thinking up innovative ways to raise funds for his Melrose team, devised a shorter, faster rugby game played with seven men per side. 

 

The popularity and passion for the sport has grown year on year transforming it into the global phenomenon it is today.

 

Martin Gilbert, CEO of the title sponsor said: “This year’s Melrose Sevens will be in the spotlight as it’s the historic 125th playing of the tournament.  

 

"Not only does the event attract high calibre players, both local and international, to the Greenyards grounds in Melrose, it also entertains and inspires visitors who travel miles to see the action unfold. 

 

"Next year the sport makes its Olympic debut in Rio de Janeiro so the players will be determined to hone their skills and put on a great show in preparation for this."