Dubai: The UAE Rugby's inaugural National Seven's squad has been announced ahead of its first international tournament in Shanghai, China, on August 27-28 at the Yuanshen Sports Centre in Pudong - as the first HSBC Asian Rugby Sevens series kicks off.
Participation in the Asian Seven's series is an integral step in UAE Rugby's desire and aim to participate in December's Emirates Airlines Dubai Rugby 7's tournament.
"Seven's development is a key priority for us, both short and long term" said Ian Bremner, CEO UAE Rugby.
Level-playing field
"We have to qualify to play in our own tournament (Emirates Airlines Dubai Rugby 7's) and to do so we have to prove to the IRB that we are physically and mentally strong enough to compete on a level-playing field" he added.
"To this end we will gauge our abilities at both the Shanghai and Borneo tournaments".
The 12-man team, which includes four Emirati's, has been drawn in Pool A which includes the Philippines and defending champions Korea.
Saturday hosts the Pool matches where the UAE will face the Philippines at 12.20pm (local time) followed by Korea at 2.40pm (local time). Sunday 28's Knock-Out games start at 10.40am (local time) with more information available on www.shanghai7s.com.
Squad
Brad Baker and Chris Gregory (Dubai Hurricanes), Tom Otton (Dubai Dragons), Murray Strang (Abu Dhabi Harlequins), Tim Fletcher and
Ryno Fourie (Dubai Dragons), Luke Mohring and Mike Cox Hill (Dubai Exiles), Mohannad Shaker (Dubai Wasps), Abdullah Al Nuaimi and Ali Mohammad Gulam (Toa Dubai) and Yousuf Shaker (Dubai Wasps).
Coach: Shane Thornton, Manager: Sean Hurley, Physio: Chris Page.
