Hong Kong’s squads for this year’s Rugby Sevens have been confirmed, with both the men’s and women’s teams set to compete in the first Sevens held at Kai Tak Stadium, replacing the tournament’s long-time home in Causeway Bay. The new 50,000-seat venue will host international rugby fans for three days in a row, starting this friday.
Hong Kong Teams Named for Sevens Debut at Kai Tak
(L to R): Row 1: Bryn PHILLIPS, Jack COMBES, Cado LEE Ka To, James CHRISTIE (Captain), Shiven DUKHANDE, Alessandro NARDONI, James KEE
The men’s squad includes a mix of seasoned players and fresh faces. James Christie will captain the side, supported by experienced names like Cado Lee and Michael Coverdale, both of whom were among 50 players officially recognised in a capping ceremony. Rising talents such as Rory Stewart Cox and James Kee have also earned places in the squad. The team will face China and Japan across the weekend, with their opening match set for Friday night under the lights at Kai Tak.
(L to R) Row 1: PUN Wai Yan, Jess EDEN, Shanna FORREST, Jamie BOURK, Stephanie CHAN Chor Ki, CHONG Ka Yan.
The women’s team is co-captained by Natasha Olson-Thorne and Chloe Chan, both key figures in the squad. The team reached the final last year but were edged out by China. They’ll now face Kazakhstan and Thailand in the group stage. Head Coach Andy Vilk has said the team is prepared for a tough weekend, but excited by the chance to compete in a new stadium in front of a home crowd.
Ticket Sales Break Records for First Sevens at New Venue
This year’s tournament will be the first international sporting event held at Kai Tak Stadium, and the response from fans has been overwhelming. Nearly 43,000 ticket packages have already been issued, with the full weekend expected to attract over 130,000 spectators.
The upcoming Rugby Sevens at the newly inaugurated Kai Tak Stadium promises to be a landmark event for Hong Kong. This tournament not only marks the debut of international rugby at the state-of-the-art venue but also sets the stage for a series key events for the S.A.R, including Coldplay’s sold-out concerts on April 8, 9, 11, and 12. Fans attending the Sevens will be among the first to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kai Tak Stadium, witnessing top-tier rugby action before the stadium hosts these major musical performances.
If you’re still looking for tickets, visit www.hksevens.com/tickets/tickets.
Header Image Credit: Kai Tak, Hong Kong Rugby & Elite Step
