Talks of their past success at the Dubai SVNS haven’t been part of the conversation for the Springbok Sevens as they put the final preparations in place for the first tournament of the new season.
While the Blitzboks have won the opening fast-paced event for the last five years in a row, they know they won’t be able to rely on that feat when they open their account on Saturday in the United Arab Emirates.
For Olympic bronze medallist Tristan Leyds, this will be a debut appearance at The Sevens Stadium, and he is eager to make a telling contribution when they face Australia (8.50am), Kenya (12.58pm) and Olympic champions France (6.44pm) in the group stages.
All eyes will be on the 27-year-old playmaker, who will be the general in the absence of regular captain Selvyn Davids.
“The first tournament of the season is always where you want to lay a marker,” Leyds said yesterday.
“Last year, I didn’t put enough pressure on the coaches to be in contention for that Dubai weekend, and I missed out.
“But I was fortunate enough to join the guys in Cape Town as the 14th player. That was the time I knew I was close to making my Blitzboks debut.
And they are off to @Dubai7s again! #Blitzboks @SVNSSeries pic.twitter.com/n2djqFTyPX
— Springbok Sevens (@Blitzboks) November 25, 2024
“Being here is a new experience and an eye-opener. I have that excitement that it is my first time, although our opponents have seen me play on the circuit.
“Things didn’t go our way after winning in Dubai, and last season was quite a roller-coaster.
“But we managed to pull a bit tighter to get the job done to secure the repechage in Monaco and win a bronze medal at the Olympics.”
Despite being a newcomer to the tournament and having less experience than many of his teammates, Leyds is unfazed and eager to contribute significantly on the pitch.
Under head coach Philip Snyman, appointed permanently after the Olympics, there is added pressure on the side to perform from the outset.
Leyds is keen to put his best foot forward to remain in the conversation, looking at the rest of the season.
“Having not played here before makes it an exciting prospect to just go out and perform. If we can make a statement here in Dubai, we can carry that energy into the next tournament in Cape Town,” the former Western Province fullback said.
Oh we are so back! 🤩
— HSBC SVNS (@SVNSSeries) November 27, 2024
You won't want to miss the new #HSBCSVNS season kicking off with @Dubai7s this weekend 🗓️#HSBCSVNSDXB pic.twitter.com/UDhkCBgPyu
“I am enjoying being in that position where I can take charge if need be.
“Luckily I also have guys on my outside and inside with loads of experience who make my job easier. But I enjoy having that control at times, and it gives you that sense of power.”
Leyds has devoted considerable effort to improving his skills since joining the team last year, addressing previous concerns regarding his defensive capabilities.
He is eager to showcase the improvement he has made on defence, especially after receiving criticism on it.
“One thing I still work on is my defence. Over the years it has been highlighted as my weak point, and I’ve worked very hard to improve that.”