Siviwe “Shakes” Soyizwapi will captain the Blitzboks when the Sevens World Series returns to Hong Kong next weekend.
With regular skipper Philip Snyman ruled out because of a head knock suffered in the last tournament in Canada, it was decided that the speedy Soyizwapi will lead the team as they look to take the momentum gained from the Canada tournament to Hong Kong.
The defending champions won their first tournament of the series last time out but will take the field without their skipper and injured duo Muller du Plessis and JC Pretorius, who was included in the Canada Dream Team.
TEAM CULTURE: Blitzbok coach Neil Powell. Photo: Ryan Wilkisy/Backpagepix.
In steps Soyizwapi, debutant Angelo Davids and Kurt-Lee Arendse, who was a replacement in Canada.
Fit-again Chris Dry will be the replacement in Hong Kong.
Of his appointment, a very happy Soyizwapi says: “Luckily the rest of the players in the leadership group are around and there are a number of very experienced guys in the squad and I have their support.
INJURED: Philip Snyman is unavailable. Photo: Backpagepix.
“I never expected to captain the side, to be honest, it is a massive honour and a responsibility I hope to fulfil with pride and ability.
“I made my debut in Hong Kong as a player, scored my first try there and now will be captain for the first time there as well.”
Of the 20-year-old Davids, a former Stellenberg High scholar, coach Neil Powell says: “Angelo has been part of the SA Rugby Sevens Academy for the last two years and played very well on their recent trip to South America.
NEWCOMER: Angelo Davids. Photo: Facebook.
“He is a hard worker and very coachable, so I have a lot of confidence in his ability.
“He is fast and great on defence, and will fit into the team culture with ease.”
dudley.carstens@inl.co.za