Bin bags comes in handy for fans

Dubai: Black bin bags became de rigeur wear at the Sevens as the show somehow went on despite quite horrendous weather conditions.

The unusual fashion statement summed up the approach of most fans to the day, preferring to join in the fun despite suffering repeated soakings as the clouds opened at regular intervals.

Tournament officials estimate that around 80 per cent of people who originally bought tickets for the sell-out event still attended, despite there being very few places to hide from the inclement weather.

Exiles chairman Steve Blackburn said: "We were told that showers were coming in - but what we got was not showers! A lot of people rallied around to make sure the event went on. I particularly want to thank the backroom staff who did everything possible in very difficult conditions."