South Africa Sevens coach Paul Treu has recalled Neil Powell to his 12-man squad for next week’s Rugby World Cup in Dubai after the experienced former captain proved that he had fully recovered from a broken arm.
The inclusion of Powell is a major boost following the loss of Mzwandile Stick, the playmaker who had replaced him as captain but is himself missing through injury.
Powell has played in none of the four IRB Sevens World Series tournaments so far this season because of a broken arm. He was the regular team captain before his injury, but Mpho Mbiyozo will retain the captaincy after leading the team in San Diego at the recent USA Sevens.
Powell replaces Howard Noble, who played in Wellington and San Diego. Speedster Lionel Mapoe keeps his place in the team after replacing the injured Mzwandile Stick in the USA tournament.
Treu: Powell to be managed carefully
Treu welcomed back his former captain and said that, apart from his obvious leadership qualities, Powell will also add much needed physicality to the squad.
“We gave Neil a good run out on Tuesday night against Hamiltons and he came through with flying colours," said Treu.
"I know he cannot wait to get back into action but we will have to manage him carefully.”
Joint World Series leaders South Africa face three tough pool matches on days one and two in Dubai against Scotland, Canada and Japan.
The Springbok Sevens squad: Mpho Mbiyozo (captain), Gio Aplon, Ryno Benjamin, Kyle Brown, Renfred Dazel, Paul Delport, Robert Ebersohn, Frankie Horne, Lionel Mapoe, Neil Powell, Philip Snyman, Vuyo Zangqa
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