The Sevens Stadium in Dubai bore witness to an electrifying start as Australia's women and South Africa's men emerged triumphant in the HSBC SVNS 2024, setting the tone for World Rugby's dynamic celebration of rugby sevens.

In an intense showdown, South Africa's Blitzboks claimed their fifth consecutive Emirates Dubai 7s title by defeating a resilient Argentina 12-7. This victory equaled the record for the most successive titles at a single location, marking Argentina's finest performance in Dubai despite settling for silver.

The women's final showcased a gripping battle between the world's top two teams. Australia, in a rematch of last year's final, halted New Zealand's astounding 41-match winning streak with a 26-19 victory, securing their fourth consecutive Dubai title in a high-voltage kickoff to HSBC SVNS 2024.

Teagan Levi's pivotal tries, coupled with Maddison Levi breaking her own tournament try record, propelled Australia to victory. The game unfolded at an astounding pace, featuring Bienne Tarita's early try within seconds and a formidable response from the Black Ferns Sevens' Jorja Miller with a stunning hat-trick, before Maddison Levi sealed the win in the dying moments.

Reflecting on the match, Australia's captain Charlotte Caslick praised Maddison Levi's stellar performance, emphasizing the team's strategy to retain possession against the formidable New Zealand side, known for their attacking prowess.

On the path to the final, New Zealand showcased their dominance by defeating Brazil and Canada in gripping encounters, while Australia secured wins against the USA and France before claiming the championship.

The men's final witnessed South Africa edging out Argentina 12-7 in a tense battle. Impi Visser and Shilton van Wyk's crucial tries, combined with Argentina's valiant efforts, culminated in a tightly contested showdown. Despite a late resurgence from Argentina's Matias Osadczuk, South Africa held firm to secure the title.

South Africa's acting head coach, Philip Snyman, lauded his squad's remarkable performances, emphasizing their commitment and pride in the Springbok Sevens jersey.

With the series now heading to South Africa, fans eagerly anticipate the forthcoming tournament in Cape Town, hoping for another stellar performance from the reigning champions.

The event's pool draw for the upcoming HSBC SVNS in Cape Town produced exciting matchups, building anticipation among fans for another exhilarating display of world-class rugby sevens.

As the HSBC SVNS extravaganza continues, featuring pulsating rugby sevens action alongside live music acts and vibrant entertainment, fans are urged not to miss out on the upcoming Cape Town event, set to deliver yet another thrilling display of top-tier rugby action.

Tickets for the next round in Cape Town on 9-10 December are available from only R150, offering an unmissable experience for rugby enthusiasts and sports lovers alike.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]