Sikeli Basiyalo could hardly believe his ears when Fijian Drua coach Glen Jackson broke the news.
At just 21 years old, Basiyalo learned that Fiji Sevens legend Osea Kolinisau wanted him to join the squad ahead of the prestigious Hong Kong Sevens.
Basiyalo linked up with the Fiji Sevens team earlier this week, with Kolinisau naming the promising forward in the squad for the upcoming HSBC SVNS Series event. Another rising star, Aisea Nawai, is also a new addition to the squad ahead of the tournament, scheduled from March 28 to 30.
The Hong Kong Sevens is one of the most iconic events in the rugby world. While the ultimate showdown, the World Championship, will take place at Los Angeles’ Dignity Health Sports Park in early May, the Hong Kong event holds a unique place in the sport. Rich in history and tradition, it is a milestone occasion for any player and an unmissable three-day spectacle for fans. This year’s tournament marks a new chapter as it will be hosted at Kai Tak Sports Park for the first time.
Fiji, who have claimed the title 19 times since 1977, are determined to reclaim the crown after last winning it in 2019. With Basiyalo joining the squad from the Drua’s training camp, the sevens giants are eager to make history once again.
“I’m happy to be part of the sevens team – things are going well. Playing sevens is a completely different challenge, the pace is much faster than what I’m used to,” Basiyalo said.
“When I first got the call, I didn’t believe it, but I was excited and eager. I’ve wanted to try sevens for a long time, and I’m glad I have the chance to learn and improve. My goal is to absorb as much as I can and take that knowledge back to the Drua.”
New Zealand has been dominant in recent seasons. The Black Ferns Sevens won the women’s event in Hong Kong in 2023 with a thrilling 26-17 victory over Australia, while the Fijian men narrowly lost the final 24-19 to the All Blacks Sevens. Fiji has fallen short in two of the last three Men’s Cup Finals, including a 20-17 loss to Australia in 2022. Argentina, finishing third in both 2022 and 2023, is also in the hunt.
Currently, Argentina leads the overall standings with 68 points, followed by Spain with 64, while Fiji and South Africa are tied for third with 62 points. With just two regular-season events remaining, the race for the league title is poised for a dramatic conclusion.
After the Hong Kong Sevens, SVNS Singapore will take place the following week at the national stadium, wrapping up the round-robin phase. This will pave the way for the high-stakes, winner-takes-all finale in Los Angeles.
