Rio 7's. Who will be there.

With the end of the 2014/15 sevens season 5 teams have qualified for Rio Olympics. Even though 7 places are yet to be decided I think we can make a pretty accurate guess at the make up. Here's my thoughts:

Brazil. The hosts. They are improving, but they're a long shot to even win a game at the Olympics.

Fiji. The winners of this years series and always strong. The advantage for them is that may be able to hold onto players for another 12 months, without them leaving for professional 15's contracts in Europe and may be able to get some talented youth this coming year.

South Africa. Another powerhouse of sevens. Given that 2016 is post world cup they could be strengthened by 15's players. It will depend on how they meld.

NZ. As above. Could be much stronger, particularly if the right players commit to the campaign from union and league (i.e. union converts). Probably have the world's best program and coach.

Great Britain. If they take players from Wales and Scotland they will be a real force. I think 15's players could be a lottery though.

Australia. Could be interesting. They should win the Oceania qualifier based on recent form. They have underperformed in recent years. Maybe not surprising given the expansion into 5 professional teams in Australia, a third tier competition, the loss of experienced players to Europe and the draw of league clubs. Depends on who commits. But if they have some great potential sevens players spread across both codes. Should W. Samoa pip them in qualifying they'll be competitive.

USA. They look like probable winners of the N American qualifier (although I'm not writing Canada off). Real dark horse. Best year yet and are improving. They have a core of 22 players who are learning and improving. If they move on from the London tournament they could be very, very hard to beat. If Canada qualify they'll be competitive.

Argentina. Certain winners of the South American Qualifier. Capable of upsetting anyone, but unlikely to win.

Kenya. Certain winners of the African qualifier. As with Argentina could upset anyone on their day.

Japan. Looks like likely winners of the Asian qualifiers. Likely will just make up the numbers.

France. My bet for European qualification. Not sure who's in the mix. Could also be Ireland, Russia, Portugal or Spain. I think they have the best record at this level. Portugal and Spain have experience than the others. Although Ireland is a major rugby nation I think they'll be hamstrung by not having fielded a sevens team, irrespective of the talent they may throw at it.

The last spot is repercharge. I'm thinking this is likely to be Canada of W. Samoa (or alternatively Australia or the USA depending on results).

Thoughts?

Looks like Welsh and Scottish players wont be going for GB.

blackcanelion wrote:Looks like Welsh and Scottish players wont be going for GB.

The coach will be making the decision who to select, and he hasn't been named yet.