All Blacks Sevens name squad for Dubai

The All Blacks Sevens have named their squad to travel to Dubai to kick off the 2017/2018 HSBC Sevens World Series season.

Coach Clark Laidlaw has announced Scott Curry and Tim Mikkelson will co-captain the team for the busy 2017/2018 season that includes the Commonwealth Games and Rugby World Cup Sevens.

“It would be tough to captain on your own over such a long season as it’s impossible for a player to play every minute of every match in a sevens season so we feel doubling up helps our group.

“The way they are working together and getting the best out of men and the environment is exciting. Having Scott and Tim will grow our leadership on and off the field.”

The travelling squad is:

Dylan Collier

Scott Curry

Sam Dickson

Tim Mikkelson

Tone Ng Shiu

Teddy Stanaway

Kurt Baker

Andrew Knewstubb

Vilimoni Koroi

Sione Molia

Joe Ravouvou

Issac Te Tamaki

Regan Ware

Joe Webber

Laidlaw has selected 14 players to travel, all with previous Sevens World Series experience.

“We wanted to pick as many players that have been with us throughout the pre-season as possible. They have the best understanding of what we are trying to do and deserve this first opportunity.

“What is exciting is knowing that the six or so players staying behind, will be working hard to get up to speed and that will make it tough to pick squads for the tournaments ahead.”