Day One at the NZI Sevens

Day one of the NZI Sevens finished on a high with New Zealand showing what makes them pool B frontrunners after a 34-7 win over Argentina.

Other pool leaders at the end of day one include series leaders England, 2010 NZI Sevens winners, Fiji, and a surprising, but not necessarily crowd favourites, Australia.

The third leg of the HSBC Sevens World Series in Wellington always showcases new talent and today was no exception. Competition is always considered tough in Wellington with many of the teams equally tagged favourites. One new star on the rise is New Zealand player and NZI Sevens debutant Frank Halai, who was the top try scorer for the first day - dotting down five times in their three games.

Off the field was just as successful for day one of the NZI Sevens. Fans were entertained with an ‘80s themed parade of nations and the vibrant ceremony had everyone on their feet. The forecasted rain never eventuated to much and fans left Westpac Stadium happy.

Also pleased with the performance were the police who were relatively happy with the crowd and their behaviour at the tournament. This year’s tougher stance on smuggling proved successful with 16 people stopped for trying to bring alcohol into Westpac Stadium which resulted in them losing their ticket for the day.

Organisers were looking forward to providing another day of exciting rugby and special entertainment to delight fans.

Day two action will see:

Cup Quarter Finals
England v Argentina
Fiji v Samoa
Australia v South Africa
New Zealand v Wales

Bowl Quarter Finals
USA v Scotland
France v Kenya
Tonga v Canada
Papua New Guinea v Cook Islands