New Zealand are now the owners of the World Sevens Series crown after World Rugby handed them the title on Tuesday.
Rugby’s administrators officially called off the Series yesterday, with the global coronavirus pandemic meaning tournaments in London, Paris, Singapore and Hong Kong were all cancelled.
That means the All Blacks
Sevens, with 115 log points, were named overall winners, taking the crown from South Africa, who ended on 104 points.
Despite losing their title,
Blitzboks coach Neil Powell says it’s a fair result.
FAIR CALL: Neil Powell
He explains: “New Zealand won three of the six tournaments and had two more podium finishes, which shows their amazing level of consistency during the season.
“After these performances, I think they deserved the title.
“We had victories in Dubai and Los Angeles and made the finals in Cape Town and
Sydney, but our below-par
performances in Hamilton and Vancouver cost us.”
He adds: “There was very good communication from World Rugby with the national coaches since the pandemic started, so we all knew that it was going to be a stretch to complete the season, if at all, and we know their decision was taken with the best interest at heart for all involved.
“We played some good rugby at times and I will consider the
season as a success.
“Much of the World Series planning and performances were with the Olympic Games in mind, so I think we kept on track with what we planned in that regard and I would like to thank my management and the squad for the effort they delivered.”