A lightning-fast talent from Southland is poised to make a spectacular debut on the international Sevens stage! This is a massive opportunity for Michael Manson, a dynamic winger for the Southland Stags, who has been named in a formidable 13-player squad for the upcoming HSBC SVNS Series events in Singapore and Perth. He's on the cusp of potentially donning the iconic All Blacks Sevens jersey, a dream for any aspiring rugby player.
New Zealand Rugby has officially unveiled both the men's and women's travelling squads, and the stakes are incredibly high. For the Black Ferns Sevens, the focus is on a strong resurgence after a tough loss to their fierce rivals, Australia, who secured a decisive 26-12 victory in the SVNS Cape Town final back in December. They'll be looking to shake off that disappointment and assert their dominance.
But here's where it gets particularly exciting for the men's team: Michael Manson is a standout inclusion in an All Blacks Sevens squad aiming to build on a season of mixed fortunes. They kicked off with a triumphant Cup Final win in Dubai, showcasing their incredible potential, but then faced a setback by missing the quarter-finals the following week in South Africa. This upcoming leg is a crucial chance to find that winning momentum again.
Manson's journey to this point has been impressive. After stints with Otago, Southland, and even a spell with the Utah Warriors in Major League Rugby, 2025 has been his breakout year. He earned three Super Rugby Pacific appearances for the Highlanders, demonstrating his ability on the big stage, before returning to represent the Stags in their distinctive maroon and gold colours.
During his time with Southland, Manson was a consistent threat, starting all 10 matches at either wing or fullback and notching an impressive six tries. His attacking prowess was on full display in a round nine clash against Tasman, where he delivered a sensational hat-trick in a full 80-minute performance. This kind of individual brilliance is exactly what Sevens rugby thrives on!
And this is the part most people miss: All Blacks Sevens coach Tomasi Cama has clearly seen something special in Manson, believing he's more than ready for the intense demands of international Sevens. The squad itself is a compelling blend of seasoned campaigners and exciting new talent. Tone Ng Shiu will once again lead the team as captain, a true veteran who recently celebrated his 50th tournament milestone in the black jersey. The rest of the squad includes Scott Gregory, Brady Rush, Akuila Rokolisoa, Kitiona Vai, Robert Rush, Kele Lasaqa, Regan Ware, Frank Vaenuku, Sofai Notoa-Tipo, Riley Williams, and Fletcher Morgan. It's a lineup that looks a little different from the one that competed in Cape Town, hinting at strategic adjustments and new combinations.
The All Blacks Sevens have a strong history at SVNS Singapore, having claimed the title at the National Stadium in 2024. This year, they've been drawn into a formidable Pool B alongside the reigning League Champions Argentina, the Olympic champions France, and their familiar rivals, Australia. This is shaping up to be a true test of their mettle!
On the women's side, Risi Pouri-Lane and Jorja Miller are leading a powerful Black Ferns Sevens squad. This lineup is packed with Olympic gold medallists and exciting emerging stars. Braxton Sorensen-McGee, who was named World Rugby's 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year, has also been selected following her debut late last year. Stalwarts like Stacey Waaka and Jazmin Felix-Hotham bring invaluable big-game experience, while Mahina Paul, Maia Davis, Alena Saili, Dani Mafoe, Jaymie Kolose, Olive Watherson, Kelsey Teneti, and Katelyn Vahaakolo complete a formidable roster.
The Black Ferns Sevens, who started their season with a victory at Dubai's The Sevens Stadium, will face France, Canada, and Great Britain in Pool B. Meanwhile, Australia is set to compete against the USA, Japan, and Fiji in their pool. The top two teams from each women's group will advance to the semi-finals, promising thrilling encounters.
SVNS Singapore is the third event of the season, taking place from January 31st to February 1st. Following Singapore, the SVNS circuit will head to Perth's HBF Park for the fourth regular-season leg, scheduled for February 7th to 8th. These next two tournaments are crucial for teams looking to make their mark on the series.
What do you think about Michael Manson's inclusion? Is he the X-factor the All Blacks Sevens need? And how do you see the Black Ferns Sevens performing after their Cape Town disappointment? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
